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The best free walking tours Dublin has to offer

Small, compact and packed with stories to tell, Dublin is best visited in the company of an expert. Whether you’re looking for a deep dive into the city’s medieval history or need a primer on local folklore, Dublin’s range of free walking tours can accommodate. Yes, free: there’s no charge to take part in any of these tours, but you’re invited to give the guide a tip for a job well done.

There are a number of independent operators that offer free walking tours of the city, including Yellow Umbrella Tours, Generation Tours and Sandeman’s, who operate free walking tours in a host of other European cities.

Sandemans NewEurope Free Tour of Dublin

Generation Tours

Yellow Umbrella Tours Ltd

Free & Self-Guided Dublin Walking Tour

Last Updated on 4th January 2023 by Sophie Nadeau

This post may contain affiliate links. Please check out my  privacy policy  and  disclosure  for more information.

As the capital of the Emerald Isle, Dublin is a beautiful destination worthy of a stop-off on any European adventure. Filled with quirky coffee shops, plenty of museums, and oodles of culture, the city is best explored on foot over the course of several days. Here’s a free and self-guided Dublin walking tour you’ll want to follow by way of introduction to Dublin.

Self-Guided Dublin Walking Tour: Practical Advice, Tricks, and Tips

The brazen head, christ church cathedral, dublin castle, queen of tarts, ha’penny bridge, river liffey, trinity college dublin & the book of kells, national gallery, st stephen’s green, marsh’s library, st patrick’s cathedral & st patrick’s green, enjoyed reading this dublin walking tour pin it now, read it again later:.

While total walking time is less than an hour, I highly recommend setting aside at least a few hours to undertake the guided walk as there are plenty of things to visit and even more places to see!

While you’ll still experience plenty should you attempt this walk in under sixty minutes, you’ll likely want to enter into some of the attractions and snap some photos along the way. If it’s a rainy day in Dublin during your visit, that’s even more of a reason to make stops en route of this tour.

When it comes to stopping off for refreshments, Dublin has plenty of quirky and quaint coffee shops which are well worth a stop off in. Highlights along the way include Peacock Green & Co. (specialising in tea) and Queen of Tarts (whose sweet delights lie in the sheer number of cakes on offer) .

Meanwhile, the best time I have when it comes to dressing for the occasion is to wear flat and comfortable shoes, as well as bringing along a rain jacket or umbrella.

After all, Ireland isn’t known as the ‘Emerald Isle’ for nothing (all the green rolling hills are thanks to plenty of rain) and you’ll want some rainproof shoes if you’re planning to spend one day in Dublin or even a weekend in Dublin .

Walking time: 58 minutes.

Distance covered: 4.6 km

The oldest pub in Dublin, and indeed all of Ireland, can be found in the form of The Brazen Head, a drinking establishment dating all the way back to 1198. Historically, the tavern has seen plenty of events over the years.

After all, the pub is referenced in James Joyce’s iconic work, Ulysses, and Jonathan Swift (author of Gulliver’s Travels) is alleged to have drunk here at some point or another. In other histories, the pub was the meeting point for famous revolutionaries such as Robert Emmet and Wolfe Tone. Book now: Brazen Head and Castle City Tour.

Following your foray into Dublin’s oldest tavern, next up it’s a visit to the oldest Cathedral in the city. Located not far from the River Liffey and comprising of centuries worth of history, Christ Church Cathedral is one of those must-see Dublin attractions.

Complete with Ireland’s oldest copy of the Magna Carta in the expansive crypt, Christ Church’s history dates back well over a thousand years. Purchase your Christ Church Cathedral ticket here in advance.

Anyone familiar with Ireland will know that the country is characterised by its castles. But what you may well not know is that there’s a castle in the very centre of the Irish capital.

Now often used as the site of a wedding venue and conference hall, Dublin Castle remains a dramatic and imposing structure on the Dublin skyline. It’s also possible to visit the interior of the castle for a fee, though of course, its exterior can still be admired for free! Book now: fast-Track Access Book of Kells and Dublin Castle Tour.

If you’re on the lookout for some good coffee and even better cakes, then the Queen of Tarts offers all this and more. Founded by sisters Regina and Yvonne Fallon, who first trained as pastry chefs in NYC, they have been in business selling sweet treats across two locations in Dublin since the late 1990s.

Today, the Queen of Tarts makes for the perfect rest stop in the middle of this Dublin Walking Tour to enjoy delicious coffees and even better cakes. While ordering be sure to bear in mind that while the sweets are on the pricier side of things, the portions are incredibly generous and you’ll be full after just one slice of cake!

As the most famous of all of Dublin’s, if not all of Ireland’s, pubs, the Temple bar merits a visit on any trip to the city, if only to pass by and snap a quick photo. While the pub is lively during the day, it truly comes to life at night when the whole place is lit up by a thousand twinkling lights and the sound of live music is continuously drifting out the ever-open door…

So-called because once upon a time travellers had to pay half a penny in order to cross the murky waters of the River Liffey below, no cityscape of Dublin would be complete without a nod to the Ha’Penny Bridge.

First constructed as a pedestrian walkway in 1816, should you choose to cross the bridge today (for free) on the other side of the river you’ll find the Winding Stair (one of the best bookshops in Dublin), as well as the National Leprechaun Museum.

Wending its way through the city centre, should you opt to wander along the River Liffey you can expect to find the traditional Irish architecture of Dublin reflected in the waters below. In Irish, the waterway is known as ‘An Life’ and is referenced in plenty of great literary works and songs, including, of course, Ulysses.

First founded by Queen Elizabeth I in the 16th-century, today Trinity College remains one of the most prestigious seats of learning in the Irish capital. While the grounds are open, free to visit, and definitely worth a peek around (especially in cherry blossom season when the magnolias are in full bloom).

Trinity College Library is one of the most beautiful sets of bookshelves in Europe. A visit to Trinity College Library also includes the chance to peek a glimpse of the Book of Kells, the most important medieval manuscript in Ireland.

Ireland has four national museums, three of which are located in central Dublin. Free to visit, the Irish capital locations feature museums on Archaeology, the Decorative Arts and a spectacular Victorian architecturally designed Natural History Museum.

Elsewhere in the Irish capital city, not far from Sweny’s Pharmacy (a 19th-century pharmacy which has since been transformed into a bookstore), the National Gallery is also free to visit and houses some of Ireland’s greatest masterpieces.

If you’re looking for a great picnic spot surrounded by coffee shops and the place where all the locals hang out, then you simply must head to St Stephen’s Green, a public park in the very heart of the city.

Opened to the public in the late 19th-century, it first started out as a grazing common on the fringes of the city. Today, the green space is filled with landscaped gardens, ponds, and is a real oasis of calm in the middle of the hustle and bustle of everyday city life.

While everyone has heard of the ornate library of Trinity College Dublin, few know about the rather secret spot of Marsh’s Library . Tucked away behind St Stephen’s Cathedral and a solid wrought iron gate, you’ll find the unique Dublin Gem.

Marsh’s Library is where Bram Stoker (author of Dracula) once studied and where Jonathan Swift (writer of Gulliver’s Travels) would sit, research, and read. Today, the centuries-old shelves are not only one of Dublin’s best-hidden attractions, but one of the best-kept secrets of Ireland . If you choose just one paid attraction to visit while in Dublin, I would say that a trip inside Marsh’s Library is well worth the entry fee of a few euros.

Dublin’s other cathedral is tucked away, a short distance from the city centre. While you must pay to enter, the cathedral’s Park is completely free to spend time in and is a source of joy to flower lovers come springtime when the air is perfumed by the scent of dozens of hyacinths.

St Stephen’s Green is a great place to end this Dublin Walking Tour as once there you can simply sit, relax for a little while, and soak up all the history you’ve just strolled through.

Sophie Nadeau loves dogs, books, Paris, pizza, and history, though not necessarily in that order. A fan of all things France related, she runs solosophie.com when she's not chasing after the next sunset shot or consuming her weight in sweet food. Currently based in Paris after studies in London, she's spent most of her life living in the beautiful Devonian countryside in South West England!

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Free Walking Tour of Dublin

• 9.40 / 10 24,398 reviews | 189,840 travellers Highly recommended, you visit the main monuments of Dublin and the stories that Edu tells are very entertaining. Edu a great guide. 10 Jose Antonio
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Our Dublin tour is the best way to discover the capital , taking in the main monuments, neighbourhoods, and stories which make up the city.

Meet your tour group next to The Spire in central Dublin  at the selected time, ready to visit places such as the mythical Temple Bar neighbourhood.

Among the other highlights are the Town Hall, the Clarence Hotel, and the  cathedral to St. Patrick himself , as well as the other cathedral in the city, Christchurch. We'll also see Dublin Castle and cross Ha'penny and O'Connell Bridge as we criss-cross the city.

We'll visit the Chester Beatty Library  and uncover the medieval relics and Viking remains of the city , as well as see Christ Church Cathedral and the Dubh Linn Gardens . Throughout the tour, the guide will share lots of interesting facts about the capital, such as St. Patrick's Day, the country's musical culture, and everything related to its language. 

After about three hours of sightseeing, we'll conclude this free tour in the vicinity of  Dublin Castle .

It's not possible to take this free tour if you're a group of more than 5 people. If this is the case, we recommend this  private tour of Dublin.

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• Destinations

Free tours in Dublin

• Tours in Dublin

Craic and culture in Dublin

Nestled on the east coast of Ireland is the charming capital of Dublin, home to the iconic Guinness storehouse & factory along the river Liffey, the Jameson whiskey distillery, ancient buildings such as Dublin castle, Christchurch Cathedral & Trinity college, famously friendly people and more character per square inch than any other city on the planet.

This small city has loads to offer the curious traveller - fascinating history from Vikings to dramatic risings & rebellions, vibrant cafés & excellent restaurants, an unrivaled music & literary tradition and the best pubs & bars in the world. Dublin is a special place rich in culture & life.

With the largest walled park in Europe, The Phoenix park, beautiful green spaces such as Stephen's green & the Iveagh gardens, endearing sea-side villages such as Howth a short train ride along some of Europe's most scenic railway, Dublin has ample opportunities to chill out after a ramble through the cobbled streets of Temple Bar, shopping on Grafton street or finding captivating areas of the city like enchanting Georgian Dublin & canal bank walk with some of the free walking tours recommended by freetour.com. Join friendly local guides for a fun & insightful free tour to get an authentic insider perspective on Dublin, we guarantee your visit to the capital of Ireland will be an experience you won't soon forget.

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Dublin Free Walking Tours

• Generation Tours

Best daily FREE TOURS in Dublin!

Dublin, the little city that satisfies even the most nomadic of travelers' wanderlust, is a wonderful mix of old and new - a beautiful town of Gothic Cathedrals, Georgian grandeur, Viking & Medieval character, a prestigious Castle, a rich tapestry of musical & literary greats, local legends, friendly faces, wonderful stories & storytellers, and world renowned nightlife...perfect for remarkable tours & experiences! On our free Dublin walking tours, our city is brought to life by exceptional local guides; come experience it all on our free city tours in Dublin.

Exploring Dublin with our free city tours

We love what we do at Generation Tours Dublin - meeting fun-lovin' travelers and showing you the best of real, authentic Dublin on unbeatable free walking tours.

We know your time in Dublin is precious and you want to get the best of the city while you're here, that's why our young local Dublin walking tour guides deliver exceptional experiences that go beyond the standard tourist-fare tours; we not only give you an unrivaled local insight into the fantastic history, heritage and culture of Dublin & Ireland, but also take you to really get under Dublin's skin, revealing local culture & life here today, and the remarkable stories, sites & sights, and quirks of our hometown.

Top quality local Dublin walking tour guides for tips only!

The excellent local Generation Tours guides who share their knowledge & passion on our free tours of Dublin do so for optional tips only - making authentic local culture and truly valuable city tour experiences accessible to all, regardless of budget. You're free to tip them whatever amount you like at the end of your tour - putting you in control while we provide unrivaled excellent walking tours of Dublin on fair terms. No more do you have to join overpriced tours; join our free tours of Dublin and see the difference!

And we’re more than just unbeatable quality Dublin walking tours – we’ll happily give you the best insider knowledge about what’s happening in the city, what to see & do in Dublin after your free tours, local hints & tips for getting the most out of your time here and, of course, how best to embrace our unique & famous nightlife. Book your spot on one of our free Dublin city tours now and meet us in front of The Old Storehouse Pub, 3 Crown Alley, in the Temple Bar district, for what is sure to be a real highlight of your time in Dublin.

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The Best Walking Tours in Dublin

I love Dublin . As a writer, how could I not? This is a city once home to iconic Nobel laureates like George Bernard Shaw, William Butler Yeats, and Samuel Beckett. It’s the perfect place for cozy cafes and writing.

Dublin is home to the rambunctious Temple Bar, Trinity College (and the famous Book of Kells), the Guinness factory, and a wide array of museums, attractions, and experiences.

Dublin has plenty of walking tours too. There are dozens of options available. Walking tours are one of my favorite ways to get to see a city. I do them whenever I go.

I’ve compiled a list of the best walking tours in Dublin. These are the tours I take when I visit and can’t recommend them enough.

Best Overall Tour

Take Walks is my go-to tour company. Their tours are always fun, educational, and insightful. They use expert guides and get you into places where no other tours go. They have a lot of tours but their Dublin in a Day tour covers the major highlights, including the Book of Kells, the Guinness Brewery, and Dublin Castle. It’s the perfect introduction to the city.

Best Free Tour

Dublin Free Walking Tour

If you’re on a budget, Dublin Free Walking Tours has a free and locally-run daily tour. It covers all the highlights and provides a solid introduction to the city. You’ll see Trinity Church, Temple Bar, the castle, and more. Tours last around three hours. Just remember to tip your guide at the end!

While those may be the best free and paid tours in the city, Dublin has a lot more to offer — no matter your interests. Here are four other insightful and educational tours in the city!  

1. Devour Food Tours

If you’re a foodie like me, don’t miss Devour’s Pubs, Grub, and History tour . This three-hour tour takes you to four historic pubs around Dublin where you’ll enjoy Irish beers, whiskeys, and enough food for a light meal. You’ll also get to visit a pub that pours one of the best Guinness pints in the city. The tour is suitable for vegetarians too.

Tours from 89 EUR.

2. Letz Go City Tours

Letz Go runs three different tours in Dublin, but their in-depth Dublin Castle & Book of Kells tour is their most popular (and my favorite). It lasts 2.5 hours and you’ll get to see the 1200-year-old Book of Kells up close and learn about its unique symbolism and medieval ornamentation. After, you’ll explore the grounds and gardens of Dublin Castle, the former seat of British rule in Ireland (which lasted until 1922). It’s a good option for history buffs.

They also offer a half-day tour to the Guinness Storehouse and Jameson’s Whiskey Distillery as well as a Guinness Storehouse & Book of Kells tour that combines a stop at two of Dublin’s most sought-after sights.

Tours from 63 EUR.

Book here!  

3. Generation Pub Crawl

If you’re looking to take in Dublin’s nightlife and pub scene, this pub crawl can help you do just that. Generation Pub Crawl runs lively pub crawls in a few party cities around Europe, including Dublin. On their tour, you’ll get skip-the-line entry to five venues, including VIP entry into Copper Face Jacks (a nightclub). A few free drinks (including a Guinness) are included too. If you’re a young or a solo traveler looking to have fun and meet people while you go out on the town, this is the perfect tour for you.

Tours from 14 EUR.

4. Original Dublin

Original Dublin offers a standard “city highlights” tour that covers the main sights (and a few hidden gems), but they also have two really unique tours for after you seen the main sights. First is their Mythology and Folklore tour , which visits lesser-known sights and learn about mythical creatures in Irish folklore.

They also offer a Musical Walking tour . On this tour, you’ll be guided around by a local musician to learn about Dublin’s famous musical heritage. You’ll get to hear (and sing) traditional folk ballads. It’s an energetic and interactive tour that’s super fun.

Tours from 22 EUR.

Walking tours are my favorite way to explore a city. I think they can really deepen your understanding of a destination. And Dublin has a lot of history and culture to learn. Be sure to use one of the above companies on your next trip!

Book Your Trip to Dublin: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. Two of my favorite places to stay are:

• Generator Hostel

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the best companies to save money with? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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From Landmarks to Legends: Dublins Finest Free Walking Tours

Luke mcleod.

• December 3, 2023
• Reading Time: 8 minutes

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Related posts, farmleigh house, admission-free adventures: uncovering the best museums in dublin, discovering dublin on foot.

When you’re in Dublin, there’s no better way to embrace the city’s vibrant culture, history, and energy than by exploring its streets on foot. And what’s better? You can do it for free! Yes, we’re talking about  Dublin free walking tours .

The Charm of Walking Tours

Walking tours offer a unique perspective on Dublin that you just can’t get from the window of a tour bus. You’ll find yourself fully immersed in the city’s atmosphere, standing in the very spots where history was made, and walking the same streets as some of the world’s most famous writers.

Walking tours are also great for those unscripted moments, like stumbling upon a brilliant street performer, or discovering a hidden gem of a café. Plus, you get to burn some calories while you’re at it!

Why Opt for Free Walking Tours

Free walking tours are led by passionate, knowledgeable local guides who love their city and want to share it with you. They operate on a tips-only basis, so you can decide what the tour was worth at the end. This means that the guides are highly motivated to make your experience as enjoyable as possible!

On a free walking tour, you’re likely to be with a small, intimate group which means you can ask all the questions you want and won’t miss out on any interesting facts or stories.

And let’s not forget the main draw – these tours are FREE! This makes them a fantastic option for budget travellers or anyone looking to save some money. You can put those savings towards some tasty Irish grub, or perhaps entrance fees to some of Dublin’s fantastic  free museums  or other  attractions .

So, are you ready to lace up your walking shoes and start exploring? Dublin’s streets are waiting for you! And remember, this is just one of the amazing  free activities  you can do in Dublin. So, get out there and make the most of your visit to the Fair City!

Historical Dublin Walking Tours

Embrace the opportunity to step back in time and explore the rich history of Dublin. With the numerous  Dublin free walking tours , you have the chance to immerse yourself in the city’s past and uncover its many secrets.

Walking Through Dublin’s Past

Strolling through the cobblestone streets, you’ll be transported to a time when Dublin was a bustling Viking settlement. Each corner turned unravels another layer of Dublin’s story, from its medieval roots to its involvement in the fight for Irish independence. The city’s history is not confined to dust-cloaked books but is etched into the very fabric of the streets and buildings around you.

Walking tours not only provide a fun way to explore at your own pace but also offer a chance to delve deeper into Dublin’s history. You’ll walk the same streets as some of Ireland’s most influential figures, such as Daniel O’Connell and Charles Stewart Parnell, and learn about the city’s role in shaping the nation’s identity.

Must-Visit Historical Landmarks

During these walking tours, there are several historical landmarks you can’t miss.

• St. Patrick’s Cathedral : Built in honour of Ireland’s patron saint, this cathedral is a beacon of Dublin’s religious history.
• Dublin Castle : Once the seat of British rule in Ireland, the castle is now a testament to the country’s journey towards independence.
• Grafton Street : This famous shopping street has been the centre of Dublin’s social life for centuries.
• Trinity College : Home to the Book of Kells, this historic university has churned out notable alumni, including Oscar Wilde and Samuel Beckett.

These are just a handful of the historical gems you’ll uncover on your walking tour. For more options on free things to do in Dublin, check out our articles on  free attractions in Dublin  and  free activities in Dublin .

Every step you take on your  Dublin free walking tours  will lead you deeper into the city’s past, making your visit a truly memorable experience.

Literary Dublin Walking Tours

Dublin’s rich literary heritage makes it a haven for book enthusiasts and history lovers alike. Embarking on one of the city’s many  literary walking tours  is like stepping into the pages of a historical novel. And the best part? You can do it all for free!

Following the Footsteps of Literary Giants

Imagine tracing the steps of literary greats like James Joyce, Oscar Wilde, and Samuel Beckett as you wander through Dublin’s historic streets. It’s not just about visiting landmarks but also gaining an understanding of the inspirations and influences behind some of their most acclaimed works.

Several  Dublin free walking tours  focus specifically on the city’s literary heritage. These guided tours often include readings from the works of these authors, offering a unique and immersive experience. You’ll get to see the city through their eyes, exploring the sites and sounds that shaped their writing.

In addition to guided tours, you can also opt for a self-guided tour. With numerous resources available online, you can customise your own literary trail and explore at your own pace.

Famous Literary Landmarks

Dublin boasts a plethora of literary landmarks that have played significant roles in the life and works of its famous authors. Here are a few must-visit locations on any literary walking tour:

• Trinity College : Home to the Book of Kells and a rich library, it’s a treasure trove for any book lover.
• Oscar Wilde’s Childhood Home : Located in Merrion Square, it’s a testament to Wilde’s early life in Dublin.
• James Joyce Centre : Devoted to one of Ireland’s most influential writers, it offers insight into Joyce’s life and works.
• Sweny’s Pharmacy : Featured in Joyce’s Ulysses, it’s a must-visit for fans of the iconic novel.

Visiting these landmarks offers you a unique perspective on Dublin’s literary scene. And it’s just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the wealth of  free activities in Dublin . Whether you’re an avid reader, a history buff, or simply interested in Dublin’s cultural heritage, these literary walking tours are a fantastic way to explore the city. Not to mention, they’re a perfect addition to your list of free things to do in Dublin!

Street Art and Creative Dublin Walking Tours

If you’re a fan of urban art, you’ll be thrilled to explore Dublin’s vibrant street art scene. With our  Dublin free walking tours , you get to witness the city’s creativity in full bloom.

Dublin’s Vibrant Art Scene

Dublin is a canvas for many talented local and international artists. The city boasts a multitude of stunning murals, graffiti, and installations that turn ordinary streets into open-air galleries. From political statements to depictions of Irish legends, the street art in Dublin is as diverse as it is captivating.

These art pieces provide a unique perspective on Dublin’s culture, history, and contemporary issues. Not only do they beautify the cityscape, but they also provoke thought and inspire conversations. So, if you’re an art enthusiast, these walking tours are a must-do in Dublin. To explore more art-related activities, check out our guide on  free art galleries in Dublin .

Unmissable Street Art Locations

While Dublin has a wealth of street art scattered throughout the city, there are some locations you won’t want to miss on your walking tour.

• Temple Bar : Known for its lively nightlife, Temple Bar is also dotted with stunning street art pieces. Don’t miss the famous “Love Lane” filled with heart-themed art and quotes about love.
• Smithfield : This district is home to the ‘Icon Factory’, an artist’s cooperative that turned the surrounding alleys into an outdoor gallery dubbed the ‘Icon Walk’.
• Portobello : In this trendy neighbourhood, you’ll find a variety of thought-provoking murals and graffiti art, particularly around the Richmond Street area.
• The Bernard Shaw : Although the famous pub has moved, its original location on South Richmond Street still boasts some of the city’s most iconic murals.

Remember, the beauty of street art lies in its transient nature. What you see today might be replaced by a new masterpiece tomorrow. So, each walking tour brings with it the excitement of discovering something new.

A walking tour exploring Dublin’s street art is a fantastic way to see the city from a different angle. It’s not just about the art, it’s about the stories they tell and the conversations they spark. So, why wait? Put on your comfy shoes and let Dublin’s streets surprise you with their colourful creativity. For more free activities, check out our list of  free attractions in Dublin .

Pub Culture and Music Dublin Walking Tours

For many, the heart and soul of Dublin lies in its vibrant pub culture and rich musical tradition. If you’re keen to dive into this facet of Dublin life, a  pub culture and music walking tour  is the perfect way to do it.

The Heartbeat of Dublin: Its Pubs and Music

The pubs of Dublin are far more than just places to grab a pint. They’re community hubs, stages for local musicians, and keepers of Irish traditions. Many have been serving Dubliners for centuries and are steeped in stories. From traditional folk tunes to modern rock, music is a key part of Dublin’s pub culture. With a  Dublin free walking tour  focusing on pub culture and music, you’ll get to experience first-hand the atmosphere of these historical pubs and enjoy the live music they offer.

Iconic Pubs and Music Venues

While it’s impossible to cover all of Dublin’s iconic pubs and music venues in a single tour, there are a few that stand out and are often featured in these walking tours:

• Temple Bar Area  – Known as Dublin’s cultural quarter, this area is a hotbed of lively pubs, many offering live music sessions.
• Grafton Street Area  – Home to a number of pubs known for their live music, including traditional Irish music sessions.
• Camden Street Area  – This area is known for its modern and trendy bars, many of which showcase live rock and indie bands.

Remember, these tours are not about the drinking, but rather about immersing yourself in Dublin’s cultural heritage. It’s about the stories, the music, the people, and the atmosphere. It’s about experiencing the true heartbeat of Dublin.

And don’t forget, there’s more to Dublin’s culture than just its pubs and music. There are numerous other free activities to enjoy in Dublin, from exploring its  museums  and  art galleries  to attending  events  and visiting  attractions .

So, lace up your walking shoes and get ready to experience Dublin like a local!

Tips for Enjoying Dublin Walking Tours

Getting the most out of  Dublin free walking tours  requires a bit of preparation. Here are some tips on what to wear and bring, the best times for walking tours, and some safety and etiquette tips.

What to Wear and Bring

Ireland’s weather can be a bit unpredictable, so it’s best to dress in layers, ready for all possibilities. Comfortable walking shoes are a must because you’ll be on your feet for a few hours. Don’t forget to bring a waterproof jacket or umbrella, just in case of a sudden downpour.

You should also bring a bottle of water to stay hydrated, and a snack could come in handy if you get peckish during the tour. A camera or your smartphone is essential for capturing the sights and memories.

Best Time for Walking Tours

Dublin’s charm can be appreciated at any time of day, but the best time for walking tours largely depends on the type of tour you’re interested in. Early morning tours are great for beating the crowds at popular landmarks, while evening tours can offer a magical view of the city under the twinkling lights.

The beauty of  Dublin free walking tours  is that they run throughout the day, so you can pick a time that suits your schedule. Just remember, some sights and attractions may have different opening hours, so it’s worth checking in advance.

Safety and Etiquette Tips

Dublin is generally a safe city, but as with any urban area, it’s important to stay alert and aware of your surroundings. Stick with your group and follow the guide’s instructions. Remember to respect the city and its inhabitants by not littering and keeping noise levels to a minimum, especially in residential areas.

When it comes to gratuities, while the tour is free, it’s customary to tip your guide if you enjoyed the tour. The amount is entirely up to you and should reflect your appreciation of the guide’s work.

Exploring Dublin on foot allows you to immerse yourself in the city’s rich history and vibrant culture. By following these tips, you’re sure to have a memorable and enjoyable experience. And remember, there’s plenty more to discover for free in Dublin, from  museums  to  art galleries , so don’t stop at the end of your walking tour!

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Self-Guided Dublin Tour

This post is a self-guided tour of Dublin that covers all the iconic sites on the city's south bank as well as some lesser-known haunts.

The tour should take approximately 1.5 hours or just a bit less than that. The walk is approximately 1.5 km (just over 1/2 a mile).

Don't forget that you can also book a pay-what-you-like live-guided tour of the city centre with us!

• Start: Viking Longboat Statue
• End: St Stephen's Green

Click the map to enlarge it or to download it to a smartphone.

GPS-Enabled Audio Tour

We also offer an audio tour of historic Dublin, researched, written, and recorded by one of our own tour guides.

Here’s a sample.

Book the Dublin audio tour .

1. Viking Longboat Statue

We’ll see a lot of monuments in the course of the walk, and this one wins the prize for the most useful.

It doubles as a bus stop. If you have it to yourself, pretending to row is a classic photo opportunity.

It surprises many visitors, but Vikings are a major part of Dublin’s story.

Initially raiders, in 841, some of them decided to settle down in Ireland, and they established towns along the coast.

2. Fishamble Street

Today, Fishamble Street is lined with modern buildings today, but its history was discovered starting in 1974 when the Dublin City Council decided to move its offices to a four-acre site here.

When archaeologists spoke up to say they’d found one of the most intact sites of its age in Europe, residents rallied around the idea of preserving it.

Those artifacts are mainly on display at the National Museum of Ireland, and the sidewalk here has little nods to them.

On the left side of the street, you can find five bronze markers with the shapes of artifacts unearthed here.

3. Handel’s Messiah

Also on the left, as the street begins to bend to the right, is a short, narrow white wall with a decorative arch.

This is the former entrance to the New Music Hall, wherein in 1742 the premiere of Handel’s Messiah was performed.

Messiah is a fixture across the English-speaking world during the Christmas season, and no less so here – except the annual tradition here happens on April 13 th , the same date as the original performance.

And since this is no longer a music venue, it takes place outside.

4. Christ Church Cathedral

There’s a lot to see on the grounds of Christ Church Cathedral – the stunning exterior, a labyrinth in the courtyard if you need somewhere to clear your head, and the interior, available to explore with either a guided or self-guided tour. 

Inside, you’ll discover impressive stained glass windows and a mosaic floor, and sacred objects from the building’s history as both a Catholic and a Protestant church.

You'll also find a tower with a world-record-setting number of bells – 19 – and a crypt with the preserved remains of a saint as well as of a mummified cat and rat.

All that inside the oldest structure still in use in Dublin.

The story of this church is long and interesting but you’ll need to learn more with the PDF and/or audio tour version.

If you’re interested in exploring inside, the church hosts services, tours, and music events.

Prayer services are held weekday mornings at 10 and evenings at 5, except on Wednesdays when they hold a choral evensong at 6. Sunday Eucharist is at 11 am.

Tours are available Thursday through Sunday, with first admission at 10 am and last admission at 4:15 pm.

Tickets are 7 Euros and fifty cents for adults with various concessions available.

The tour includes access to the bell tower and crypts, both of which involve stairs.

Tickets: https://www.mytoptickets.com/?3B041324-155D-D234-0AA684C0D2E68919

5. Dublin Castle

For more than seven centuries, Dublin Castle was the center of government in Ireland.

While there are still some older elements under the castle, most of what you can see dates from after a major fire.

It took place in the 17 th century, so the castle was rebuilt in the heyday of Dublin’s famous Georgian style of architecture.

Dublin Castle was built near the meeting of two rivers: the Liffey, where our tour started, and the Poddle, which still merges into the Liffey here, but today flows underground.

If you’d like to visit the castle, it’s open from 9:45 am to 5:45 pm daily, with final admission at 5:15 pm.

Self-guided and guided tours are available. Guided tours are an hour long and cover the State Apartments, the undercroft, and the royal chapel; tickets are 12 Euros with concessions for students, seniors, and children.

Self-guided tours offer access only to the State Apartments and exhibitions; these are 8 Euros, with the same concessions.

6. City Hall

City Hall is open to the public and free to enter.

Right through the door is a vast, impressive, echoing entrance hall with a massive dome, plus a glass elevator so you can see the whole thing from above.

All this opulence comes from the fact that when this was built in the 18 th century, it was the royal stock exchange and custom house.

But, when the city bought it in the 1850s for its current function, they added a floor mosaic with the city seal.

There’s also a rotunda, which is available to visit when it isn’t rented out for events.

And the basement is home to a small gallery with a broad exhibition of artifacts from Dublin’s history.

There’s also a café inside if you’re due to rest a while. The building is open Monday through Saturday, from 10 am to 5:15 pm.

7. Temple Bar And The Irish Rock ‘N’ Roll Museum

Curved St, Temple Bar, Dublin 2

The area you’ve been walking through is called Temple Bar. For newcomers, the name can be confusing – it’s the name of a neighborhood, not a drinking establishment.

For the “Bar” part of the name, think sandbar rather than whiskey bar. It was named for the riverbed it borders.

Today, the bars are of the whiskey rather than the sand variety, and the neighborhood has become a place where art meets nightlife.

The highlight of the neighborhood is its live music venues, and the Irish Rock N Roll Museum was built right in the middle of the action.

Within a few blocks, you’ll find art galleries, theaters, festivals, and lots of bars, more often than not with live music.

There are lots of other things to do in Temple Bar, and it’s well worth exploring this area at more leisure.

It’s also tourist central for Dublin, so scoping things out and making plans during the daytime can save you time after nightfall.

8. Bank Bar

The Bank is a bar and restaurant today, but it started out as a bank.

If you looked inside City Hall earlier, you’ll have gotten an impression of what Irish institutions of commerce looked like in the 18 th century.

This building takes that atmosphere into the late 19 th century.

The current interior was designed in the 1890s, and it was given the stained-glass ceilings, mosaic floors, and generally over-the-top décor that would inspire confidence in investors.

All that grandeur is still there – if you’re here during open hours, you’re welcome to step inside and get a look at the place, whether or not you plan to patronize it.

And if you did decide to stay awhile, you could also see the bank vaults, which are in the basement near the restrooms.

Another treasure on offer is a full replica of the Book of Kells – the main tourist attraction of Trinity College, a couple of stops ahead.

The Bank Bar is open from 11 am to 10 pm daily.

9. Molly Malone Statue

This is Molly Malone. She’s the subject of a song called “Cockles and Mussels,” which is famous to the point of cliché among Irish people.

The title comes from the line “cockles and mussels alive, alive, oh,” which is a cry that street vendors selling mollusks actually used in the 19 th century when the song probably originated.

But its origins are mysterious, and its main character may or may not have been a real person.

Molly Malone is one of the most stereotypical Irish names you could think of.

The character, real or not, meets a tragic end.

After taking up the family business of selling seafood from a cart, she meets the song’s narrator and leaves a strong impression, but then dies of fever and haunts the streets, hawking shellfish for eternity.

And you actually can hear Molly’s voice today.

This is one of the Talking Statues of Dublin – twelve monuments that can talk to you through your phone with the help of a QR code on a plaque located nearby.

10. Irish Houses Of Parliament (Former Location)

We’ve already seen a couple of examples of transformed houses of commerce, a stock exchange turned into a city hall and a bank turned into a bar.

This is a house of parliament turned into a bank.

It was built in 1729 when Ireland was dominated by an English upper class but still had its own legislature.

Like the English Parliament, it was a bicameral or two-house parliament, with a House of Lords and a House of Commons.

They had no permanent home and met where they could, often in religious spaces or private homes, where it could be difficult to even fit all the members, much less do their work gracefully.

This building was commissioned to solve that problem.

The architect was himself a member of parliament, and he designed the first building in the world meant to serve exactly the purpose of a two-house legislature.

In 1800, the Acts of Union, passed by both the English and Irish Parliaments, formally joined the two lands into the United Kingdom.

The Irish Parliament was dissolved. Three years later, the Bank of Ireland acquired the building.

11. Trinity College

What you’re seeing now is the oldest part of Trinity’s campus, mostly consisting of 19 th -century buildings.

Trinity is the single college that makes up the University of Dublin.  Similar universities in the UK contain many colleges.

And that was the model the founders had in mind in 1592 when a Church of Ireland archbishop asked the English crown to grant land that had once belonged to a monastery for the creation of a university.

The bell tower, called the Campanile, is the centerpiece of this area – it’s from 1853, so it’s been here long enough to develop some lore.

Trinity is one of the most respected universities in the world, and its alumni can be found in many corners of the present and of history, including the Irish separatist movement.

Several Irish presidents went here, and it’s particularly known for its literary graduates.

James Joyce unsurprisingly wasn’t one of them, but Oscar Wilde, Jonathan Swift, Samuel Beckett, Bram Stoker, and lots of others were.

And when it comes to literary significance, Trinity also has an undeniable claim to fame: the Book of Kells , located in a stunning library just a few steps away from the Campanile.

It’s the university’s main attraction for visitors, but not the only one: the campus is also home to a zoological museum (only open during the summer), a science museum, an art gallery, and a theater.

12. The Book Of Kells

If you don’t know the Book of Kells, it isn’t the kind of book you sit and read.

No one is allowed to touch it, it’s in Latin, and even if you know the language, it’s written so elaborately that it’s almost unreadable.

But the decoration is the point: the Book of Kells is an illuminated manuscript.

It's a copy of the four gospels of the New Testament of the Bible written so artfully that it’s considered Ireland’s single foremost cultural artifact, and one of the greatest works of art of Europe’s Middle Ages.

The word “Kells” comes from the Abbey of Kells, which was where the book was kept for centuries and probably where at least part of it was made.

The building where it’s located is called the Old Library, built in 1712, and the part that houses the book is the Long Room, a 65-meter room that’s remarkably beautiful on its own.

It’s also home to a 15 th -century wooden harp – an instrument that was as essential at one time to Gaelic music as the fiddle is today.

This one is the basis for the harp design seen on the Irish emblem and on the logo of Guinness.

Because abbeys were wealthy, they were targets for Viking raids, and that disruption probably destroyed many works of Insular Art and ended the era of their creation.

Given how fragile the book is, its survival is remarkable, and it’s had some close scrapes.

It was stolen once, probably less for the book itself than for a jeweled cover; the cover was torn off and the book was thrown away, but somehow it was recovered.  

13. Irish Whiskey Museum

Famous as Irish whiskey may be, it’s on its way out of a dark age.

After a heyday in the 18 th and 19 th centuries, when there were many hundreds of distilling companies on the island, by 1972 the number was down to one.

That company was Irish Distillers Limited, which produces well-known brands like Jameson, and in 1988, that single company became a subsidiary of a beverage giant based in France.

But 1988 also saw the opening of the first new distillery in Ireland in many decades. And today, there are 32.

This museum opened in 2014 and tells the story of that rise and fall and rise again, going all the way back to the drink’s origins.

The word “whiskey” comes from the Irish phrase “uisce beatha,” which means “water of life” – a straight translation of the Latin “aqua vitae,” which was the medieval name for any kind of solution involving alcohol.

The museum offers tours, a whiskey blending experience, and a brunch.

Of course, it has a bar, which has around 100 whiskeys and hosts live music and other events Friday through Sunday evenings, closing at 10:30 pm.

14. Grafton Street

Grafton Street is Dublin’s most famous corridor for shopping and people watching, and from here until St. Stephen’s Green, where the street ends, it’s pedestrian-only.

The street is mostly retail, and it has a little of everything from high-end to low-end, and some of the oldest businesses here are Dublin or Irish exclusives, mostly high-end shopping.

There’s Brown Thomas, a classy Irish department store, JM Barnardo Furriers, Weir and Sons Jewelers, and James Fox Cigars and Whiskey.

The smallest local businesses are the musicians – Grafton Street is busking central for Dublin.

One other local business to keep an eye out for is Bewley’s Oriental Café, founded in 1927.

Besides a place to stop for coffee or lunch, it’s also a historic hangout for writers – James Joyce not only spent time there but mentioned it in his book Dubliners.

15. National Gallery Of Ireland

Merrion Square West, Dublin 2

The National Gallery has been one of the best places to see art in Ireland since 1854.

It’s got both a national and a continental focus, with plenty of Irish artists, but also lots of other Europeans, from medieval to modern.

The Grand Gallery in particular mixes the two – it’s a long, elegant space showing works from across Enlightenment Europe, but all with some relation to Ireland, whether by artist or subject matter or the painting’s back story.

A local favorite piece is Irish painter Frederic William Burton’s The Meeting on the Turret Stairs .

Or, for some emphatically Irish subject matter, you could find Daniel Maclise’s The Marriage of Strongbow and Aoife , which depicts the cementing by marriage of the alliance between Diarmat Mac Murchada and his Norman allies.

But you can also see Vermeer and Caravaggio and Picasso, among other greats.

Admission is free for the main gallery, with admission sometimes charged for temporary shows.

Exhibitions and events: https://www.nationalgallery.ie/whats-on

16. Oscar Wilde Statue

Oscar Wilde stood out, and in a city full of statues in simple bronze or stone, so does this monument.

Artist Danny Osborne did his research, and given Wilde’s taste for overdressing and living beyond his means.

Osborne chose fitting materials: it’s made of four different stones from places as far apart as Canada and India, with bits of porcelain and bronze, plus the giant chunk of quartz he’s sprawled on, which is the only element sourced from Ireland.

He’s wearing a Trinity necktie and his wedding ring.

The female figure in his view is his wife Constance Lloyd, pregnant with one of their two sons; one of their grandchildren officiated at the unveiling of the monument.

And the male torso is meant to be Dionysus, the ancient Greek god of wine and drama.

Behind the flashy exterior, though, his private life was shaky.

He had a lasting relationship with Lord Alfred Douglas, a young man who introduced him to London’s underground gay scene.

Wilde eventually found himself on trial for sodomy and gross indecency. He was sentenced to prison with hard labor for two years.

With all this in mind, to see what the artist had in mind for this statue, you have to look at it from both sides.

His face is split like a tragicomic mask. Viewed from the right, he’s smiling, and you can see the society man and the quick wit; the other side shows him as he emerged from prison.

Besides reading Wilde’s many words engraved on the statues, you also have another opportunity to hear this statue talk, just like the Molly Malone one; there’s a link to information in the notes.

http://www.talkingstatuesdublin.ie/

17. Leinster House

Leinster House is the home of the Oireachtas, the Irish legislature, since 1922.

As before the Acts of Union, it’s a two-house legislature, but without the distinction between nobility and non-nobility drawn under the old system, and without English names.

Today, the two houses are the Seanad, the upper house, and the Dáil, the lower house, both of which meet here.

Unlike the old Parliament House, Leinster House wasn’t built for the purpose of legislative action.

It was a private residence, finished in 1748 for a man who would eventually become the Duke of Leinster.

But in 1922, when the Oireachtas has its debut at Leinster House, closely watched by hopeful locals and curious international press, it gave them a particularly Irish welcome: the proceedings of the legislature were held in the Irish language.

Fun Fact: Leinster House was partly the basis for the United States’ White House, designed by Irish architect James Hoban.

18. National Museum Of Ireland – Archaeology

This museum covers the history of Ireland from the Stone Age to the Late Middle Ages, along with a few exhibits on the ancient Mediterranean.

The area called the Treasury shows a history of Irish art, from the Iron Age through the development of the church-influenced Insular style (including illuminated manuscripts) to the Viking-influenced style that followed.

Another show focuses on prehistoric gold ornaments made during the Bronze Age.

And another focuses on the more practical items of prehistoric life in Ireland, including a 4500-year-old boat and the island’s oldest known musical instruments.

The last of the permanent exhibitions focus on Viking life in Ireland, including relics from the elaborate burial traditions observed in the Norse religion, as well as Christian art created by those Vikings who settled and converted.

Other exhibits are shown on a temporary basis, and if you’re lucky – or unlucky, depending on how you feel about it – you may see bog bodies.

These are human remains naturally preserved in peat bogs, likely part of an ancient human sacrifice ritual.

Exhibitions: https://www.museum.ie/en-IE/Museums/Archaeology/Exhibitions

Events: https://www.museum.ie/en-IE/Museums/Archaeology/Events

The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 am to 5 pm, and Sunday and Monday, 1 - 5 pm. Admission is free, as it is at all four of the National Museum of Ireland locations.

19. The Mansion House

Through all of Dublin’s political upheaval and the game of musical chairs its governing institutions have played, this place has been unusually stable: since 1715, it’s been the official home of the Cathaoirleach, the mayor of Dublin.

It’s also been the scene of plenty of other major political moments.

In 1919, the first Dáil, or the lower house of the legislature, met here and spoke the declaration of Irish independence (there was also a centennial celebration of that event in January of 2019).

And in 1921, the Anglo-Irish Treaty, formalizing the terms of separation between the UK and the Republic of Ireland, was signed here.

And before either of those events, this was where Michael Collins, a leader of the Irish separatist movement, evaded arrest by the British military by sweeping the floor and pretending to be a janitor.

Civic ceremonies are held here today, such as when the city bestows the title of Freeman of Dublin, a high honor that comes with grazing rights on the public greens and the duty to defend the city in case of attack.

All kinds of political and cultural figures have been honored in this way, so take a moment to imagine a future siege of Dublin when the city is defended by Michael Gorbachev, Bono and the Edge, and Barack and Michelle Obama.

20. The Little Museum Of Dublin

Next to the national museums we’ve seen, this is a humble place, but it’s also a local favorite.

It’s a scrappy, homemade, self-described “people’s museum,” focused on the part of Dublin history that’s still in living memory – think more U2 paraphernalia and soccer memorabilia than illuminated manuscripts and bog bodies.

It’s also a young museum. In 2011, a call was put out to the public for objects that screamed 20 th century Dublin, and the results were arranged in three floors of a Georgian townhouse.

For Dubliners, it’s a nostalgia experience on top of being educational.

They sell a variety of tickets – for 8 Euros you can get either a roughly hour-long self-guided experience or their staple, a half-hour guided tour.

The same price gets you access to their several themed tours:

• a tour of Irish women’s history every Monday at 4 pm
• a walk of St. Stephen’s Green every day at 3:30 pm
• a tour themed around writers every day at 11:30 am
• a tour within the museum of queer Dublin history every other Saturday at 4 pm.

15 Euros gets you an all-day pass for whatever’s on the day’s schedule.

There are guided options in Irish sign and French, and there’s a free tour of the museum Wednesdays at 11 am. 

The building is also home to a project called the City of a Thousand Welcomes, which can arrange, usually with some notice, for you to meet a Dubliner, one-on-one or two-on-one. 

21. St. Stephen’s Green

As indicated at the last stop, there’s enough to see in St. Stephen’s Green to make a whole walking tour on its own.

But it’s also a good place for leisure, which may be in order by now.

The park is open 7:30 am to dusk Monday through Saturday, 9:30 am to dusk on Sundays.

From here on the northside of St. Stephen’s Green, you’re just a short walk from the lake that spans most of the park’s width.

When you reach the water, you can make a right and walk a little further to find a bridge crossing a narrow point in the lake and leading to the center of the park, where you’ll find a Victorian flower garden.

To the right from there is a garden designed for blind visitors, with plants chosen for their smell and physical texture, and to the left, in a bend in the lake, a bog garden.

The park was originally a commons used for grazing, but in the 17 th century, homes were built around it, and it became a private park for the residents.

In 1880 it became a public park, thanks to the philanthropic work of the Guinness family, the people behind Guinness beer.

One of them bought the park and paid for its renovation, and today he’s one of the many statues and monuments in the park.

During the Easter Rising, separatists seized the park, dug trenches, and fought against the British military, with a pause in the fighting so a groundskeeper could feed the ducks.

The park still shows the marks of that event: there’s a monument called the Fusilier’s Arch at the northwest entrance, which still has bullet holes in it.

And in the center of the park, opposite the bridge across the lake, is a bronze bust of Constance Markievicz, an Irish woman who fought in the Easter Rising, was the first woman elected to the British Parliament, and also served in the First Dáil and as a minister in the first government of the Republic of Ireland.

This is the end of the tour. We hope you enjoyed it. 

Free Walking Tours

Our free walking tour page lists the various pay-what-you-like walks that are available on a daily basis in English and Spanish.

These tours usually last 2.5 - 3 hours each. You can  book tours here .

Tourist Passes and Bus Tours

If you purchase a Dublin Pass or GoDublin Card , you'll get small-group guided walking tours included.

A hop-on-hop-off bus ticket will get you easy transportation around the city - directly to Dublin's most popular attractions. Audio guides and guided walks are also offered with each ticket.

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Yellow umbrella tours, we are a local, independent tour company in ireland. we love to share our city and our story with visitors.

We are a small group of experienced and enthusiastic tour guides. We have all been guiding in Ireland for several years and each guide brings their own uniqueness, individual interests and personal opinions to their tours.

Join us to discover the fascinating history and explore the unique culture, food and drink of our beautiful island!

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Southside Tour with Peter was Fantastic. I am all about walking yours in towns and this was one of the best. It lasted about 3 hours, but I could have wandered around with Peter for a couple of more hours and not gotten bored. We got great general history of Ireland and insite to specific sites on the South Doubling tour. Highly recommend.

Absolutely recommend!

During my short trip to Dublin I decided to book a free walking tour with the Yellow Umbrella Tours – South Side. Our guide was Conor (with one ‘n’) who did a great job sharing bits of Ireland’s/Dublin’s history and present in a relatively short amount of time (one can learn a lot in 3 hours) and with some humour. I had lots of fun learning during this tour and I would 200% recommend anyone to book it. I’m sure you won’t regret it!

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Our tour lasted 2hr45 of the Southside, and was really excellent. Our tour guide gave us lots of information and was happy to answer questions, and was generally very friendly and easy to understand. It’s a contribution at the end as well, but nominally free. Would definitely recommend!

All you need to know within 2 hours

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Must-do in Dublin

Had a fantastic South Side tour with Richie on Sunday morning. Very informative and funny, and we learned interesting history about Dublin. It’s three hours but time flies by! Highly recommend to anyone wanting to take a walking tour – best way to get your bearings plus learn about the buildings instead of just looking at them!

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We did both the north and south side tours with Peter. He was absolutely fantastic and really knowledgeable, giving an insight into the city we never would have had walking round in our own. He was also really helpful in answering any questions and providing recommendations for the rest of our trip. Great experience and would definitely advise anyone visiting Dublin to book on to both tours.

Educational and fun. Highly recommended!

My hostel recommended this company to me. Incredibly knowledgeable guide for the free morning & afternoon walking tour (tour date 30.11.2021). Did not expect this level of knowledge and presentation skill from a free tour, but will definitely take a closer look at their normal tours next time I am in Dublin. I am sure they are fabulous too. Overall highly recommended!

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MUSIC & PUBS

• REVOLUTIONARY DUBLIN & 2016

DUBLIN'S 10 TASTINGS

Dublin kickstarter.

• SECRETS AND HIDDEN GEMS
• HAUNTED DUBLIN
• STREET ART, GRAFFITI, COUNTER CULTURE
• THE PERFECT PINT
• MALAHIDE CASTLE & GARDENS

Let me be your guide

As your tour guide, I’ll help you disconnect from your everyday world, so you can immerse yourself in Dublin and all it has to offer. Check out just some of my tour options below or better still call, text or whatsapp me on 00353871822493 or email me at  [email protected]  so I can create a bespoke tour option to precisely cover your interests, group size and budget.

Ruairi Keogh

MY WALKING TOURS

Experience the Dubliner’s Dublin with Ruairi and learn all about the Irish music from traditional to rock. Visit famous landmarks and pubs and listen and enjoy Irish music at its finest Enjoy Irish pub grub and drinks while lapping up the atmosphere, music and craic in Dublin’s best classic pubs.

Cost: €26pp

REVOLUTIONARY DUBLIN 

Dublin was the epicentre of the Irish struggle for Irish independence and the rising over Easter 1916 is the most important turning point. On this 3 hour tour you’ll visit some of the key places associated with the rising as well as hearing stories that you’d struggle to find in academic tomes.

Cost: €30pp

On this 3 hour tour you ‘ll visit a mix of artisan producers, market stalls, traditional pubs and restaurants sampling incredible products along the way. Everything from handmade fudge to succulent pork, fish and chips, ice-cream and of course a magnificent Guinness poured to perfection.

Cost: €99.50pp

100 minutes around the centre of Dublin that will give you all the essential information that you’ll need about Dublin, its history and must see attractions, You’ll get your bearings, get a taste of all that Dublin has to offer and end up better equipped to make the most of your time here.

Cost: €28pp  

SECRETS & HIDDEN GEMS

Want to see the best of Dublin including its secrets and hidden gems? Discover Dublin’s centre’s unique districts in a three hour tour. From it’s Viking Birthplace and it’s medieval centre, to its’ cultural centre, markets, stores and of course a fantastic Dublin pub.

HAUNTED  DUBLIN

Take 2 hours to discover Dublin’s scary tales and horrifying scandals. Visit the 40 steps where the ghost of Jonathan Swift still appears, Visit places that inspired Brahm Stoker’s Dracula and  visit one of Dublin’s oldest pub which is home to a number of ghostly spectres.

Cost: €28pp

STREET ART, GRAFFITI & COUNTER CULTURE

On this two two and a half hour tour you’ll discover Dublin’s vibrant street life, see where Graffiti transitions into art, spectacular murals and installations, cool markets and local shopping areas, coffee culture and of course craft beers.

THE PERFECT PINT & WHISKEY GALORE

Take a 3 hour wander around some of Dublin’s famous hostelries and public houses. Sample craft beers and ciders and discover what makes the “perfect pint”. Enjoy a couple of drinks in pubs frequented by artists, musicians and literary characters of the past and present

Cost: €43pp

MALAHIDE CASTLE AND GARDENS

Situated 30 minutes north of Dublin’s city centre is the picturesque seaside village of Malahide. Originally founded by the Vikings this scenic coastline enjoys beautiful beaches, landmarks, shops. Bars and restaurants.

Cost: €70pp

“Leading us through different parts of Dublin, he informed us about the city's history, geography, art, culture and even told us a few ghost stories.”

“ruairi knows his stuff, put on your walking shoes and enjoy a great morning.”.

Billy, Northern Ireland

“We had a fabulous time on our food tour with Ruairí. He took us to some really unique spots that fully showcased both the classic Irish food experience as well as Dublin's emerging foodie culture. ”

Matthew, Amsterdam

#DublinWalkingTours

Tag me on Instagram with @bd.walkingtours #staycation2021

15 Sights in One Day | A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Dublin

Dublin city centre is fairly compact and can be easily explored on foot. Knowing the Irish capital very well, I put together an itinerary for a self-guided walking tour of Dublin focusing on sights located in the city centre so you can see as much as possible in one day.

Time spent on this tour depends entirely on you. It can be completed in less than 2 hours if you plan on just getting a feel for the city. Or you can spend all day if you decide to explore further and visit some of the attractions along this walking route of Dublin .

So let’s jump right in!

Disclaimer This post may contain affiliate links. If you click on a link, I earn a little money at no extra cost to you.

Best Online Resources to Book your Trip to Dublin

• Getting There | I would recommend Aer Lingus and Air France , two reliable and affordable airlines. If you’re travelling from the UK or France, you can also sail to Dublin with Irish Ferries and Stena Line .
• Where to Stay | You’ll find accommodation for every budget on Booking.com . Cheaper options can be found on Hostelworld .
• Things to Do | You can buy tickets, skip-the-line passes and day trips with GetYourGuide and Viator . Context Travel offers private tours led by local experts.
• Getting Around | Travel from and to Dublin airport with Aircoach or Dublin Express . Transport For Ireland free app will help you navigate the city transport network if you ever need a bus.
• Planning | Lonely Planet Dublin city guide is one of my favourite travel guides when it comes to planning a trip to the Irish capital.
• Travel Insurance | Don’t forget to buy travel insurance before visiting Dublin. Heymondo has a nifty app to help you get the assistance you need while on the go.

More Travel Resources

Self-Guided Walking Tour of Dublin – PART 1

A. O’Connell Street

Start your day on  O’Connell Street . This large thoroughfare featuring statues to various Irish political leaders was in large part rebuilt after the violence of the  1916 Easter Rising . O’Connell Street has been the backdrop to several political events over the years and remains today the starting point of public protests and demonstrations.

On O’Connell Street is one of Dublin’s main landmarks: the  General Post Office . It is still a working post office today, rebuilt after its near-destruction during the 1916 events. Don’t hesitate to have a quick look inside, or why not check out its Easter Rising museum .

Also on O’Connell Street can be found the  Spire , a controversial 121-metre-high needle of stainless steel that is now one of Dublin’s most recognisable features.

B. Ha’Penny Bridge

Taking a selfie on the  Ha’Penny Bridge  is a real cliché that few can resist. It is also a real challenge. Made of cast iron, this elegant but narrow 19th century pedestrian bridge over the  River Liffey  is a Dubliners’ favourite to cross between the North and South side of the city. Also very popular with tourists, it can become congested at times.

The bridge was built in 1816 to replace rickety ferries used by pedestrians to move between the North and South bank of the river. It owes its name to the toll that people had to pay to cross the river: half a penny.

You might also be interested in: – Ireland Travel Books | The Best Guidebooks to Plan your Irish Adventure – Beyond the Cityscape | The Best Seaside Towns Near Dublin – The 4 Best Distillery Tours in Dublin To Learn About Irish Whiskey – 5 Amazing Places to Visit Near Dublin Without a Car

C. Temple Bar

Once you have crossed the Ha’Penny Bridge, head straight beneath the archway and enter  Temple Bar . The most photographed part of Dublin, Temple Bar is famous for its colourful pubs and Irish music pouring down its cobbled streets.

Often decried by locals as a tourist trap charging exorbitant prices for a pint of beer, Temple Bar is also Dublin’s cultural quarter , home to funky vintage shops, interesting art galleries, reputable restaurants and – a favourite of mine – a food market every Saturday.

D. Dublin Castle

Just across from Temple Bar is Dublin Castle . This wonderful piece of Georgian architecture is a must-see castle to visit on your first trip to Dublin . Dating from the 18th century, it replaced an earlier Norman fortress ravaged by a fire in 1684.

You won’t be allowed to enter the building without a ticket, but you can take a stroll around the Upper Yard for free and admire the Chapel Royal from outside.

At the back of the Castle can be found the Dubh Linn Gardens , a landscaped haven of peace in bustling Dublin. It is also here you’ll discover the Chester Beatty Library . No doubt one of the best art museums in Dublin, the world renowned Chester Beatty Library is also free to visit. Your chance to take a peek at rare and richly decorated Bibles and Qurans dating back centuries ago.

E. City Hall

Next to Dublin Castle is the  City Hall . Built in the 18th century, the building is a great piece of neo-classical architecture. City Hall holds temporary exhibitions and access is free.

F. Christ Church Cathedral

Five minutes away is  Christ Church , Dublin’s oldest cathedral. Extensively restored in the 1870s, it is an interesting mix of 12th-13th century architecture and Victorian Gothic features. Entrance is not free. If you decide to spend some time here, the guided tour will give you the opportunity to ring the bells in the belfry. Cheaper, you can also book a self-guided tour with audio guide (different languages available).

In the Synod Hall of the Cathedral across the bridge is  Dublinia , a museum dedicated to Viking and Medieval Dublin that commands the access to the medieval St Michael’s Tower. Entrance is with ticket only.

G. Saint Patrick’s Cathedral

Located 5-10 minutes down St Patrick’s Street,  Saint Patrick’s  is Dublin’s second cathedral. Jonathan Swift, best known as the author of Gulliver’s Travels, is buried under its floor. He was Dean of the Cathedral from 1713 to 1745. Tickets must be purchased to enter the edifice.

Adjacent to the Cathedral is the picturesque  St. Patrick’s Park  created in 1901 by Sir Edward Guinness. Around the corner from the Cathedral down St. Patrick’s Close can be found the  Marsh’s Library . One of Dublin’s oldest libraries , the Marsh’s Library is a perfectly preserved 18th century library.

H. George’s Street Arcade

This walking itinerary will now take you back to the heart of the city.

One of Europe’s oldest shopping centres,  George’s Street Arcade  is a Victorian indoor market home to an eclectic range of stores, stalls and cafés. Visit its vintage shops or browse drawings from local artists. Discover the unexpected in George’s Street Arcade.

I. Powerscourt Centre

In the heart of the Creative Quarter,  Powerscourt Centre  is a beautiful townhouse elegantly transformed into a shopping centre. Discover designer and craft shops, antique Irish brooches and rings including the famous  Claddagh ring , or just take some time to relax with a coffee.

Wander through the streets of the Creative Quarter for more independent stores with locally made products and some of the best Irish craft and souvenir shops in Dublin .

J. Grafton Street

You’ve reached  Grafton Street , Dublin’s main shopping district. This pedestrian-only street is home to many high-street brands, from Vans to Victoria’s Secret. On sunny days, Grafton Street is taken over by buskers and inventive entertainers. Talented or not, that’s up to you to decide!

At Grafton Street’s far end sits  Stephen’s Green Shopping Centre . Its impressive architecture of glass and steel should convince you to have a peek inside. Across from it can be found the  Gaiety Theatre . Every summer, the Gaiety welcomes a world-renowned show: River Dance.

Feeling hungry or tired? Time to get some energy back before exploring further. Cafés and restaurants abound in Grafton Street and nearby side streets. Eat a sandwich on the go, sit on a terrace for a coffee and light bite, or enjoy comforting pub food. There’s something for every taste in and around Grafton Street.

Self-Guided Walking Tour of Dublin – PART 2

Now that you have rested your feet for a little while, let’s get back to our walking tour of Dublin .

A. St. Stephen’s Green

St. Stephen’s Green  is Dublin’s largest Georgian garden square and one of the most popular public parks in the city. Donated by Sir Arthur Guinness to the people of Dublin in the 19th century, St. Stephen’s Green has been a respite from the bustling city ever since.

Across from St. Stephen’s Green, you might spot a 300-year-old cemetery on Merrion Row. Established in 1693, it was the burial ground for French Huguenots in Dublin , who fled religious persecution in France.

B. Merrion Square

With elegant Georgian townhouses lined up all around it,  Merrion Square  is considered Dublin’s finest Georgian garden square. Among other notable residents, famous writers Oscar Wilde and W.B. Yeats lived in those desirable homes, as well as Irish political leader Daniel O’Connell.

Only open to the public since the 1960s, it is worth wandering around the garden’s well maintained alleys and manicured lawns until you bump into the great Oscar Wilde himself resting on a rock.

Behind a secured gate,  Leinster House  and the  Government Buildings  can be observed at a distance from Merrion Square. If you fancy a breath of culture along your walking tour, the  National Museum of Ireland  and the  National Gallery  both have their entrances around the corner.  If you are visiting the city on a budget, these free Dublin museums have to be on your do-list!

C. Trinity College

Enter  Trinity College  through Nassau Street. Founded in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth I, Trinity College is Ireland’s oldest surviving university and its most prestigious. You can roam the grounds freely and observe the elegant architecture of its oldest buildings harmoniously arranged in squares.

Tours are available from the main entrance on College Green, though not offered all year round. If you have some spare time, visit the  Old Library  (tickets only) that hosts an exhibition of the famous  Book of Kells , an illuminated manuscript believed to date back to the 9th century. The Long Room with its spectacular vaulted ceiling is a must-see masterpiece.

D. Molly Malone

End your self-guided walking tour in front of St Andrew’s Church in St. Andrew’s Street where the statue of  Molly Malone  is now located. Molly Malone is a fictional fishmonger rendered famous by a popular song of the same name. The song has become the unofficial anthem of Dublin and ending a tour of the city without paying your respect to Molly Malone could be perceived as rude.

Guided Tours for the History Enthusiast

Self-guided tours are great. You can go at your own pace and decide where and how you want to spend your time.

But if, like me, you like learning about the history and interesting anecdotes of the place you visit, why not book a guided tour with someone knowledgeable?

Check out the recommendations below!

Where to Stay in Dublin City Centre

To make the most of your day, I recommend staying in the city centre to allow for an early start. Here are some recommendations of top-rated hotels with the perfect location:

• O’Connell Street: The Gresham
• Ha’Penny Bridge: Zanzibar Lock
• Temple Bar: The Hard Rock Hotel
• Grafton Street: The Westbury Hotel
• Merrion Square: The Alex

Click here for more options, or read the latest reviews on Tripadvisor . Dublin can be very pricey, especially in the summer months. Always book early to get the best deal.

I hope you will enjoy this self-walking tour of Dublin and you will get to see as many sights as possible in just one day. There is so much to see that you might want to come back and explore Dublin even more. Hopefully this Dublin city guide will give you more ideas of things to do during your next visit to this wonderful and lively city.

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you click on a link, I earn a little money at no extra cost to you.

RELATED POSTS

Top Things to Do in Temple Bar, Dublin, That Are Not Tourist Traps

The Best Free Museums in Dublin You’ll Want to See

Beyond the Cityscape | The Best Seaside Towns Near Dublin

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Best Self-Guided Walking Tour of Dublin (With Map)

By Author Keith O'Hara

Posted on Last updated: December 29, 2023

If you’re after a self-guided walking tour of Dublin that packs a punch, you’ve landed in the right spot.

I’ve lived in Ireland’s capital for 34 years and I’m very confident you’ll love the mini-itinerary that I’ve outlined below.

It includes a one and two day option and it takes in the main things to do in Dublin , unique sights that tourists tend to miss and some historical pubs, too.

Our free Dublin walking tour follows a clear, logical route to ensure that you make the most of your time here. Dive on in!

Table of Contents

Day 1 of our self-guided walking tour of Dublin

Click to enlarge image

The Dublin walking tour map above will give you an overview of where our route will take you over each day.

As you can see, each day has a clear route and packs in a mix of key attractions and places you hopefully won’t have heard of.

If you want a guided tour, you’ll find organised Dublin walking tours with excellent reviews right here (affiliate link).

Money saving tip: If you’re planning on visit some of the main fee-paying attractions in the city, the Dublin Pass can save you €50+

1. Molly Malone Statue

Photos via Shutterstock

Day 1 of our self-guided walking tour of Dublin kicks-off at the now-iconic Molly Malone Statue on Suffolk Street in the heart of the city.

The bronze statue shows Molly, a famous character from the Irish song ‘Molly Malone’, who sold ‘Cockles and Mussels’ on the streets of the capital.

The statue was erected in 1988 and it has moved a handful of times. You won’t spend long here, but it’s a nice starting point for your stroll!

2. Trinity College

Our second stop of the day is a handy 2-minute walk from the first! Trinity College is one of the most famous landmarks in Ireland .

It is a renowned educational institution and it was established in 1592. It’s also inside the grounds of Trinity that you’ll find the ancient Book of Kells .

Trinity is the oldest university in Ireland and you can take a ramble through its impressive grounds, admire its magnificent architecture and tour the wonderful Long Room Library .

It’s in the Long Room that you’ll find 200,000+ of the college’s oldest books. It’s worth booking the skip-the-line ticket here as it gets busy ( this ticket gets you access to Trinity and Dublin Castle).

Related reads: See our guides on where to stay in Dublin + the best hotels in Dublin in 2024

3. The Palace Bar

Photos via The Palace on FB

The next stop on our self-guided walking tour of Dublin is going to be a brief one (I’m not suggesting you go drinking at this stage of the day!).

While there are many old pubs in Dublin , few are as visually impressive as the Palace Bar, which you’ll find a 3-minute walk from Trinity.

This pub was built in 1823 and it stands today, many years later, as a Victorian shrine, of sorts. Admire its impressive interior, first, and then saunter inside for a nosey (you can return here later).

It’s located just inside the cobbled streets of Temple Bar , so you can have a nosey around this area, if you like.

Related reads: See our guides on the best pubs in Dublin , the best Guinness in Dublin and the best pubs with live music in Dublin

4. O’Connell Bridge

When you’re ready, take the 3-minute walk to O’Connell Bridge, which spans the murky waters of Dublin’s River Liffey.

O’Connell Bridge replaced Gandon’s Carlisle Bridge, which opened in 1794. The bridge that stands to this day opened back in 1880 and cost £70,000 to build.

It measures at 148 ft in length and 160 ft in width. Named after political leader Daniel ‘The Liberator’ O’Connell it boasts impressive features, like its impressive lanterns.

Related reads: See our guides on spending 1 day in Dublin , 2 days in Dublin and 3 days in Dublin

5. The General Post Office

Walk up the historic O’Connell Street (be careful – there are plenty of dodgy characters that hang around here) and head straight from the The General Post Office (GPO) – it’s around a 4-minute walk from the last stop.

The GPO was built during the early 19th century and it’s here that you’ll see some of the more impressive architecture in Dublin , courtesy of the buildings neoclassical design.

This building played a key part in Irish history during the Easter Rising of 1916 when it served as the rebel headquarters. You can take a tour here that’ll immerse you in the city’s past.

6. The Spire

One of the more unique places you’ll visit on this walking tour of Dublin is the Spire – it’s less than 1-minute walk from the GPO… you can’t miss it.

Also known as ‘the Monument of Light’ (along with many other colourful nicknames…), the Spire stands 394 feet tall and it was erected in 2003.

I’ll be honest – the Spire is impressive when viewed from afar, but there’s no real point of seeing it up close.

7. The Ha’penny Bridge

The next stop on our self-guided walking tour of Dublin is a 7-minute walk from the Spire and it’s arguably one of the most beautiful bridges in Europe!

The Ha’penny Bridge , officially known as the Liffey Bridge, is an iconic pedestrian bridge that spans the River Liffey that was built in 1816.

It’s name comes from the fact that you once had to pay a toll to cross the bridge. The cost was a Ha’penny and there were turnstiles at either end of the bridge.

The bridge is a little slice of ‘old-Dublin’ that still used heavily to this day. It’s believed that around 27,000 people cross it each day.

Related read: See our guide on how to get around Dublin

8. St. Michan’s Church

Photos with thanks to Jennifer Boyer

You won’t find our next stop, St. Michan’s Church , on many Dublin walking tours, however, it’s  well-worth  a visit.

It’s a 12-minute walk from the Ha’penny Bridge and it’s here that you’ll find a historic building that dates back to the 11th century.

Oh, you’ll also find crypts with mummies… yes, mummies. In fact, some of the mummies at St. Michan’s are thought to be over 400 years old.

If you’re looking for unique things to see in the capital, make sure to add this one to your self-guided walking tour of Dublin.

9. The Brazen Head

We’re off Dublin’s oldest pub, next – The Brazen Head (a 4-minute walk from St. Michan’s).

The present building that you see today dates back to 1754, local legend claims that the site has housed a tavern since 1198.

And though no documents exist to prove that, we know that there’s been a licensed alehouse here since the mid 17th-century at least (which is old enough!).

If you’re feeling peckish, this is a handy lunch-spot. It’s well worth visiting either way as this place is steeped in history .

10. Christ Church Cathedral

One of the most popular stops on this self-guided walking tour of Dublin is the stunning Christ Church Cathedral , a 6-minute walk from The Brazen Head.

Christ Church Cathedral was founded in the early 11th century under the Viking king Sitruic Silkenbeard (amazingly, that is his real name!).

Originally built as a wooden structure in 1030 with the help of an Irish priest, it was rebuilt in stone in 1172.

The current Gothic-style cathedral, with its striking architecture and impressive interior, has been standing since the 12th century.

11. Dublin Castle

Few castles in Ireland receive visitor numbers like our next stop. Dublin Castle is a 4-minute walk away and it’s here you’ll find an impressive structure that dates back over 800 years.

Originally developed as a medieval fortress under the orders of King John of England, work on Dublin Castle was started by Meiler Fitzhenry in 1204 when the city was under Norman rule following the invasion of 1169.

Constructed on elevated ground once occupied by an earlier Viking settlement, it was completed in 1230 and took on the look of a classic Norman courtyard design.

One of the most prominent parts of the castle today, the imposing Record Tower is the only surviving tower of the original Medieval fortifications.

While its rectangular battlements on the roof are actually a 19th-century addition, they look pretty convincing! 

Related read: See our guide on the best castles in Dublin

12. St. Patrick’s Cathedral

Another firm favourite on this self-guided walking tour of Dublin is located a 12-minute walk from the castle.

St. Patrick’s Cathedral is a historic religious landmark that was founded in 1191. It’s the largest church in Ireland and it boasts Gothic architecture.

When you arrive here, take some time to saunter around the part and admire the cathedral’s exterior, before heading inside to get an eyeful of its outstanding interior.

13. The Guinness Storehouse

Photos © Diageo via Ireland’s Content Pool

Few Dublin walking tours can resist rounding off a day of strolling at The Guinness Storehouse , which is a 17-minute walk from St. Patrick’s Cathedral.

Book your tickets in advance (self-guided or guided) and immerse yourself in the story of the most famous of the many Irish beers .

The building itself is part of the Guinness Brewery and it acts as a seven-story visitor centre that takes visitors through the history of Guinness along with how it’s made and more.

The tour finishes on the rooftop in the impressive Gravity Bar that overlooks Dublin City and beyond.

Day 2 of our self-guided walking tour of Dublin

1. St. Stephen’s Green

We’re going to kick-start day two of our self-guided walking tour of Dublin at St. Stephen’s Green , which is often referred to as the ‘Lungs of Dublin’.

You’ll find the nine hectare/22-acre park at the top of busy Grafton Street when it’s home to commemorative sculptures, extensive trees and a large pond.

It has a pretty  wild  history that few are familiar with (read more here ) and it’s a nice, calm spot to kick-start the day!

2. Leinster House

The second stop of the day takes us 4 minutes down the road to Leinster House – the epicenter of Irish politics.

This is an impressive Georgian building that dates back to the 18th century. Now, while you can take a guided tour, if you like, you’re arguably best off admiring Leinster House from afar.

Unless you’re interested in politics, that is – in that case head on in for a journey back through Ireland’s political past.

3. National Gallery of Ireland

Photo left: Cathy Wheatley. Others: James Fennell (Tourism Ireland)

The National Gallery of Ireland is a 5-minute walk from Leinster House and it’s here you’ll find one of the most popular museums in Dublin .

It’s also one of the best free things to do in Dublin when it’s raining! For visiting art enthusiasts, the National Gallery of Ireland is an absolute must.

This cultural treasure trove houses a vast collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts spanning various periods, from the Renaissance to the present.

Ireland’s artistic heritage can go overlooked by tourists and locals alike – this is an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in it.

4. Merrion Square

Located in Dublin’s charming Georgian quarter, Merrion Square is a delightful mix of greenery and history (and it’s only 5 minutes from our last stop).

The square boasts finely manicured gardens that feel a far-cry from the busy city streets that lay just minutes away.

If you head for a stroll through its grounds, you’ll stumble upon impressive sculptures (including one of Oscar Wilde).

5. Irish Whiskey Museum

Photos by Brian Morrison via Failte Ireland

If you’re taking this self-guided walking tour of Dublin and it’s raining, our next stop will provide some welcome respite from the elements!

You’ll find the Irish Whiskey Museum a handy 15-minute stroll from Merrion Square and it’s here that you’ll discover the story behind the coveted Irish Whiskey .

I’ve done this tour in recent years and it offers a good mix (terrible pub intended…) of sippin’ and storytellin’.

You’ll get an insight into the history of whiskey and how it’s made and there’s also a tasting at the end.

6. Mulligan’s

© Tourism Ireland

Many Dublin walking tours take you to the busy pubs in Temple Bar . However, if you want to dodge the tourist traps, take the 6-minute walk from the Whiskey Museum to Mulligan’s.

You’ll find it on Poolbeg Street where it’s loved by locals and tourists alike for its old-worlde charm.

The pub received its license in 1782 but it operated as a Shebeen (a place where drink was sold illegally) for many years before.

The biggest compliment that I can give Mulligan’s is that walking through its doors makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

Expect a lovely, traditional interior, a fine pint of Guinness and a furnishings that have stood the test of time.

7. The Custom House

The next stop on our self-guided walking tour of Dublin is the magnificent Custom House, a 4-minute walk from Mulligan’s.

This is an architectural marvel on Dublin’s waterfront and it was designed by James Gandon in the late 18th century.

The Custom House is famous for its neoclassical facade which is best admired from afar, first, before up close.

The building is now home to the Department of Housing.

8. The Famine Memorial

Dublin’s Famine Memorial is a poignant tribute to one of Ireland’s darkest chapters in history.

Located on Custom House Quay, a 4-minute walk from the Custom House, these haunting sculptures depict the devastating impact of the Great Famine in the 19th century.

The memorial serves as a solemn reminder of the suffering endured by the Irish people during that time and stands as a testament to the resilience and spirit of those who lived through the tragedy.

Photo left: Eileen Coffey. Others: Ros Kavanagh (via Fáilte Ireland)

The next stop on our self-guided walking tour of Dublin is a handy 2-minute walk from The Famine Memorial.

EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum explores the profound impact that Irish emigrants have had across the world.

The museum is housed inside a vaulted space and stories are told via interactive exhibitions and striking displays.

You’ll need to pay into this one but it’s well-worth it (especially if it’s raining!).

10. The Jeanie Johnston

Photo left: Gareth McCormack. Others: Dylan Vaughan (via Failte Ireland)

Many Dublin walking tours omit the brilliant Jeanie Johnston Famine Ship which sits a 2-minute walk from the EPIC Museum.

The Jeanie Johnston is an impressive replica of the original ship that transported Irish emigrants to North America during the Great Famine.

The ship is a floating museum that offers an insight into the challenges faced by those Irish men and women that sought a better life across the pond.

You can take a guided tour here where you’ll be immersed in a story that shaped the very DNA of Ireland.

Dublin walking tours FAQs

We’ve had a lot of questions over the years asking about everything from ‘What’s a good route with free attractions?’ to ‘What unique stops should be included?’.

In the section below, we’ve popped in the most FAQs that we’ve received. If you have a question that we haven’t tackled, ask away in the comments section below.

What’s a good route for a self-guided walking tour of Dublin?

If you use our Dublin walking tour map above, you’ll find a clear, logical route that takes in the city’s top sights over the course of two days. You could easily chop and change this route if needed.

Can you walk around Dublin in a day?

You can see the main sights in Dublin city in one day. If you follow the route on our Dublin walking tour map, you’ll only be walking from attraction-to-attraction for a total of 1.5 to 2 hours.

Can you walk around Dublin easily?

Yes. Dublin City is very walkable. Once you have a clear itinerary and know where you’re visiting and when, you’ll have no problem exploring the city on a self-guided walking tour of Dublin.

Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 35 years and has spent most of the last 10 creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 30 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries . Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.

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Editor Picks: 5 of the Best Dublin Walking Tours

With old cobbled lanes, colourful shop fronts and historical buildings, Dublin is a great place to explore on foot – here is our pick of walking tours of the city.

(Photo: Getyourguide.com)

Dublin is the kind of city that is full of surprises – walk cobbled streets, past colourful shop fronts and old timewarp pubs, and just soak up the atmosphere of the Irish capital. Obviously, with Dublin being fairly compact compared to other European metropolises, a walking tour makes perfect sense, taking you at slow speed through the city so that you don’t miss a thing. There are plenty of excellent, affordable walking tours in Dublin to take – here is our pick of five of the best. 

Dublin: Highlights and Hidden Gems Walking Tour

If you are new to Dublin, this is the tour you should sign up for. Featuring the main sights and some hidden secret spots, it’s a great overview of life in the Irish capital. That doesn’t mean it’s dull however, the professional, local guide whipping up some great stories about life past and present, from the Vikings to Georgian boulevards to writers, rebels and rock stars. Once you’ve had your fill of history, you may be hungry for some of Dublin’s culinary highlights – the guide can also give you advice and tips on where to eat for the rest of your trip. The tour is two hours long and is good value. From €23.00.

Book at Getyourguide.com

Dublin: Mythology and Folklore Walking Tour

Now for something a little different. This tour delves into the myths and legends of Dublin, exploring the characters and stories that have shaped the city and Ireland as a whole. The guide is an expert in Irish folklore and knows how to brings these takes to life, explaining about everything from mythical creatures such as the banshee and púca, and telling stories about rebellions, grave robbing and revolutions. Over the two hours you’ll also get to explore Dublin away from the tourist trail, with a visit to some of the city’s lesser-known locations. Another recommended and affordable tour. From €23.00.

2-Hour Historical Walking Tour from Dublin

One of the first things worth noting about this excellent tour is the price – it’s one of the cheapest walking tours in the capital and worth every penny. The reviews speak for themselves – it has almost always five-star feedback. Unlike lesser tours, the history postgraduate guides really know their stuff, explaining everything from the English conquest to Brexit, with the kind of stories and insight that you won’t hear everywhere. The meeting point is Trinity College and the tour finishes at Dublin Castle. This is a great experience for both history buffs and anyone who wants to better understand the history of Dublin and Ireland. From €19.00.

Book at Viator.com

Dublin: Foodie Walking Tour with Local Guide

Dublin is very much a foodie destination, with everything from decent fish and chips to exclusive Michelin-starred restaurants. This tour is about getting to know the best local cuisine in the Irish capital, as well as some history of the city thrown in as you go. You’ll visit true local spots – avoiding the usual tourists traps – stopping off for five dishes along the way. Be sure to make sure you turn up to this tour hungry. Included in this three-hour activity is the tour guide – but food and drinks are extra. From €27.50.

Walking Tour Along Dublin’s River Liffey Bridges

If you’re not really the kind of person who wants a straightforward walking tour, this guided stroll takes a different spin. The focus, loosely, is on the River Liffey bridges, which span not over the river but hundreds of years, coming in all shapes and sizes. As you walk you’ll also pass some of the city’s major landmarks, from the Guinness Brewery to Christchurch Cathedral to the Custom House, with the guide happy to explain their significance too. This is a really informative and unique way to see Dublin, away from the crowds of the city centre, and as it is a private tour you can ask lots of questions and hear about what you are interested in. Ben, the guide, is friendly and knowledgeable. From €47.06.

Book at Withlocals.com

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Dublin Strolls

Guided Walking Tours of Dublin City

Daily Tours: 11AM & 230PM

About Dublin Strolls - Guided walking tours of Dublin city

Discover Dublin through the eyes of a local on your guided walking tour. Join your experienced tourist guide, Dermot, to discover Dublin city on foot. We keep our group sizes small to make sure you leave loving Dublin city as much as we do!

Daily Tours at 11:00AM and 2:30PM

Take one of our most popular walking tours; learn about Medieval and Viking Dublin, seek out the grandeur of Georgian Dublin or explore the city's most famous sights on this small group walking tour of Dublin. 

We offer customised tours for individuals, families, friends and groups. Have a special interest in literature, history, music? Want to rediscover your city, or your Irish heritage? We will design a bespoke guided walking tour of Dublin city to match your interests, ensuring you have the best day out exploring Ireland's beautiful capital city. 

GEORGIAN DUBLIN, SOUTHSIDE

Duration: 2.5 to 3 hours at a leisurely pace

On this guided walking tour discover the delights of Georgian Dublin and delve into its history. Sights include: Georgian Squares, Leinster House, Huguenot Cemetery and much more

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GuruWalk Review [2024]: Are The Free Walking Tours Legit?

Looking for a tour that offers the best of both worlds in terms of budget and local expertise? GuruWalk, an online platform that connects travelers with local guides, might be the solution to your needs! Find out in this review if GuruWalk is the right platform for you!

If you're a passionate traveler like me, you know that every city has its own unique personality. Sometimes, scripted tours stop you from having the real experience!. 

Here's where Guruwalk switches the game by allowing locals to give you the real deal. With passionate locals leading your way, see the city like the locals do!

Without any further ado, let me walk you through what GuruWalk is all about. With this honest and unbiased review, you can decide whether it's worth your time and money.

What Is GuruWalk? 

GuruWalk  is an online platform that connects travelers with local guides who offer free walking tours in cities across the globe. With an interactive user interface, GuruWalks helps you book walking tours with ease. 

There's no hassle of booking weeks in advance or sticking to any stiff commitments if your plans change!

These tours are designed to give travelers an immersive experience of the local culture and history. But, why is it better than other walking tours? Well, it's being led by passionate locals who can show you just how to have fun the local way!

Is It Free?

Yes, GuruWalk is technically free. However, it's not uncommon for travelers to pay as they please at the end of the tour to show their appreciation for the wonderful guides. Basically, GuruWalk can be considered a pay-as-you-please service!

How Does It Work?

Using GuruWalk is super easy! Just create an account through their website or mobile app and browse the different tours available. Choose a tour that suits you for your preferred location and book without a hassle!

The tour usually lasts between 2 to 3 hours and is usually on foot. If you're a couch potato like me and dread the thought of walking, I have good news! You can opt for a bike tour and pedal your way through the sights. 

Where Is GuruWalk Operational? 

GuruWalk offers tours in over  100 cities  across Europe, Asia, Africa, North and South America, and Australia. Some of the most popular cities where GuruWalk operates include: 

Pricing Plan 

Let's face it, traveling is expensive, which is why GuruWalk is such a game-changer. Their tours are as free as a sample at Costco, so you can save some bucks for a fancy dinner or a pair of those hilarious touristy socks. However, it's customary to tip your guide at the end of the tour as a way of thanking them for their time and expertise. 

How much you tip is totally up to you, so you can pay whatever you think is justifiable! 

How to Book a Tour?

• Create an account  - Like any app, you'll create a simple account through their  website  or mobile app to find an ideal tour for you. 
• Browse tours  - Scroll through the variety of tours available. You can filter your search by location, date, and tour type.
• Choose a tour  - When you fall in love with a tour that meets all your requirements, click on it to read up on all the details. Be sure to check out the tour's duration, distance of the meeting point from your hotel, and the guide's profile.
• Book the tour  -Once you book your tour, you'll receive a confirmation email with all the necessary details, including the meeting point and time. Make sure you don't stand your guide up!
• Attend the tour  - Put on your walking shoes and get ready to meet your guru! You'll find them waiting for you at the designated meeting point. 
• Leave a review  - Congrats, you've completed your journey! Before you move on to your next adventure, make sure to leave a review of your guide and the tour on the GuruWalk platform. It's your chance to share your thoughts, spread the love, and help fellow travelers find their perfect tour.

Here are some of the most prominent features of the platform:

Pay-As-You-Please Tours

All of GuruWalk's tours are pay-as-you-please for travelers. Local guides offer their services for free, and travelers can choose how much they want to tip their guide, meaning you won't have to spend too much to tour!

Wide Network

GuruWalk has a large network of local guides who offer tours in cities all over the world. Chances are you can point anywhere on the map blindfolded and find a Guruwalk tour waiting for you wherever your finger lands. Tour almost anywhere in the world without fretting over expenses!

Customized Tours 

GuruWalk gurus are all locals who have a knack for exploring and helping people see a city in a non-traditional way. All tour guides, therefore, have something unique to offer, and walkers can tour with the guide whose personality and tour itinerary sound the most exciting to them. 

Tours can also be customized on the spot to suit the interests of travelers. Want to focus on street art? Done. Need to find the best food spots? Why not! Our gurus won't judge you if you find the city's best gelato truck and decide to stop for a scoop… or two... or four. 

The flexibility GuruWalk provides is not something you'd get with traditional tours. 

Ratings and Reviews 

GuruWalk has a rating and review system for each tour and guide, which allows travelers to read about the experiences of others while making informed decisions when choosing a guide.

Whether you're looking for a guide who can show you the best sunset view in the city or just a travel companion with a great sense of humor, the reviews on GuruWalk will help you find the perfect match.

What Can Go Wrong With GuruWalk? 

Like any other touring platform, GuruWalk has its downsides. Since GuruWalk enables locals to sign up as guides without any strict prerequisites, it can be challenging to predict the quality of your tour. 

Not all guides are true experts who can give you the trip of a lifetime. 

Because the tours are not standardized, your experience depends on your tour guide. Even if you book the same tour with a different guide, your ideal tour may also be disrupted if your desired tour guide isn't available. 

One big problem I can think of is that since these tour guides are all local people, they may or may not have the expertise to deal with foreigners. 

Although the guides are accredited and professionally verified according to the local law, they might not speak your language or understand your culture and requirements.

The tour guides also depend on tips as their income, which is usually higher than a fixed-fee tour. This may still be well below the country's average income. This discourages guides and may result in some leaving the platform. 

Is GuruWalk Worth It?

All things considered, GuruWalk is still a great way to tour a city. It's affordable, flexible, and much more convenient than traditional tours. While the quality of the tours can vary depending on the guide, GuruWalk provides a unique and valuable opportunity to discover hidden gems and gain a deeper understanding of a destination. 

If you're tired of walking around with a guidebook in hand, squinting at maps, and trying to decipher foreign street signs, let GuruWalk be your saviour!

Our Rating: 4.5/5

• Local expertise
• Flexible and customizable tours
• Ratings and review system
• Helpful customer support team
• Unpredictable quality of the tour
• Tours subject to the guide's preference 
• Language barriers

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Home > Walking Tours

Walking Tours 

Specialists in private walking tours of dublin..

Designed according to your needs, our tours are aimed at providing a private Dublin experience to you and your travel companions that will exceed your expectations.

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Sightseeing Tours

3hrs, 5hrs, 8hrs

Themed Tours

Museums, Pubs, Crafts, Design

Combo Tours

Ideal for groups (8-15)

Bespoke Tours

Tailored to your needs

There are 3 main points that distinguish us from other operators: Quality, Our Guides, and Connection.

Quality over quantity : We believe that the smaller your group, the better the tour experience as you’ll have the flexibility to cusotmise the tour to suit your needs. Even though we could, we don’t offer a lot of tours. Rather than 30 mediocre tours, we host only a handful of carefully crafted walking tours. Many tour companies, by contrast, try to be the ‘jack of all trades’ and end up ‘the master of none’.

Our Guides : We don’t just hire a guide because they’re trained and experienced. We carefully select and train guides who demonstrate the right mix of personality, intelligence, communication skills and professionalism. Knowledge can always be learned, whereas personality is innate. Our guides are naturally warm, endearing, charismatic, great listeners and communicators as well as empathetic to the particular perspective and needs of the group at a macro and micro level.

Connection : We emphasise the importance of making a personal connection with Ireland through a very personable guide. We don’t focus on the black & white of history. We don’t blabber on endlessly with superfluous information. You don’t need to know the architect of a building (though our guides do), but you do need to know what that building means to the people. A city without its people is called a ruin. We focus on informing you about how people feel about a building, what it means to them today and what it meant to them in the past.

More importantly, you’ll feel what the guide feels as the personification of the Irish nation. The guide actually wants to make an authentic personal connection with you. And you’ll see this during your tour.

Many tour providers offer the option to do a private tour as an afterthought to their principal focus of public or big group tours. Dublin Tour Guide, on the other hand, exclusively offers private tours and prefers smaller group tours. This means that we are specialised in private tours and have become the experts in Dublin. Guides that do public tours are used to talking and giving a presentation whereas our guides are used to engaging in conversation that naturally develops. What’s more, our guides have a lot of experience in listening to people. This means that they are adept at customising a tour based on the interests, needs and wants of travellers.

In this era of COVID, it is more important than ever to do a private tour. One reason is that it will just be you and your group and no strangers on the tour. So your fear is assuaged, presuming you know the contact history of your companions. Another reason is that since we only do private tours, our guides are far less likely to transmit the virus from one tour group to the next.

Size: Dublin is not a big city. It’s not like London. You could walk from one end of the city centre to the other in 20 minutes. So the city is compact and most attractions are very nearby. This means that during our tours you will not be walking a lot.  It also helps that the city is quite flat, easy to navigate, not crowded, and easy to orientate yourself thanks to the east-west River Liffey.

Carbon footprint:  We proudly provide sustainable and carbon-neutral tours. We believe that it is irresponsible to use a vehicle to tour Dublin: Dublin city has far too much car traffic as it is; even for those with health and mobility issues a walking tour is practical – taking a car to each attraction is like driving down your driveway to collect your mail.

The rare exception is if you want to visit the few attractions not located in the city centre such as Kilmainham Gaol, Glasnevin Cemetary and, to a lesser extent, the Guinness Storehouse. These can still be easily reached by taking one bus service from the centre. The Old Jameson Distillery is very close to a tram stop, making it even easier to get to.  If you still need a driver, we can recommend someone for you. Please contact us.

Connection: Our tours are about connection. Being able to look into someone’s eyes when you talk is an important emotional aspect of communication. This is not possible whilst driving. So a driving tour is a much less intimate and connected experience.

Furthermore, walking through the city with a guide allows you to soak up the unique energy and character of Dublin.

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🥇amsterdam: all-in-one walking tour.

Hoi Hoi 👋 Welcome to MasterDam Tours! Our experienced local guides bring humor and a profound passion for Amsterdam. Prepare for a one-of-a-kind, unforgettable and fun experience in this beautiful city.

GW Originals free walking tours are chosen by our staff among the best and are unique tours that you will only find on GuruWalk .

• Free booking and cancellation Free payment tour, no set price, booking and cancellation are free
• Accepts electronic payment This tour allows payment by electronic means or credit card

Tour description

👋 Hey there! Looking to explore the city with a local guide during you trip in Amsterdam? Join our time-bending tour of Amsterdam's historic center! We're taking you to the heart of history, exploring the Old Town , the unique Jewish Quarter , and the legendary canals                            By the end of this tour, you'll wow the locals with your flawless Dutch greetings, you'll know where to get a secret stash of tasty Dutch treats , and you’ll be deeply in love with the city's captivating history that we hold near and dear! What topics we'll dive into:

• 🌊 Origins of Amsterdam and the Netherlands : Learn about the very roots of this vibrant city and the country it calls home. 
• 🌍   Golden Age and War of Independence : Step back in time to a period of immense wealth and the battles fought for freedom. 
• 🚨 Red Light District : Hear about the secrets of the infamous neighborhood with the ladies behind the red windows. 
• 🏛️ Amsterdam UNESCO World Heritage Site : Marvel at the architectural wonders that earned this city its UNESCO status. 
• 🏮 Chinatown - Drugs & Tolerance : Walk though the vibrant Chinatown and learn about our city's unique stance on certain vices. 
• ⚔️ WW2 and the Hunger Winter : Relive the city's wartime struggles during WW2 and the resilience of its people. 
• 🥞 Dutch Food and Modern Culture : Learn about Dutch cuisine and feel the contemporary vibes of this dynamic city. 

If that sounds interesting to you, here are some extra’s we've got lined up just for you ;) + Bonus #1 : We’ll treat you to a delicious Dutch snack during the tour! 🍪 + Bonus #2 : Strike a pose next to our stunning canals, and we'll snap a picture of you to cherish forever! 📸 + Bonus #3 : You’ll receive a list of recommendations with the best things to do and eat while you're here. 🌟 ⚠️ Once the groups are full, you won't be able to sign up, so make sure to reserve your spots right now for free! ⚠️                           

See you on the tour! ✌️ This tour is not for groups of 5 people and bigger 👇⛔️

Kindly be aware that this tour is specifically designed and only available for individuals, couples and small groups i We will decline multiple reservations under different names that would result in groups exceeding this limit Bigger groups will be cancelled or turned away at the meeting point. Thank you for your understanding.

What will we visit on this tour?

Look for the guide(s) holding an White Umbrella, in front of the Saint Nicholas Church next to Amsterdam Central Station

Meet your guide with the WHITE umbrella right in front of the Basilica of Saint Nicholas next to Amsterdam Central Station

Here we will cover the creation of the Netherlands and how Dutch water engineering allowed the dutch to transform the land. What is the difference is between "the Netherlands" and "Holland”?

Learn about the journey of the Netherlands towards becoming an independent republic after its Spanish rule. We’ll cover the story of the most famous churches in Amsterdam and and the unique history of the hidden church known as Ons'Lieve Heer Op Solder.

We’ll cover the history and laws surrounding Coffeeshops and the Red Light District, and how they have shaped the city's cultural landscape. China town has amazing restaurants too!

We’ll be walking past Amsterdam’s Red Light District. Your guide will tell you more about it’s history and current state.

This is where you’ll hear about dutch architecture next to De Waag, which once served as the city gate. Why are the houses leaning? Why are they so skinny?

Step into the stunning 17th-century courtyard hidden within this historic building. Amsterdam became the center of a global trading empire during the "Golden Age". We’ll talk about the highlights of both the positive achievements and the darker legacy of this remarkable period.

Discover the devastating consequences of the Nazi occupation, which nearly obliterated this once thriving neighborhood. This area had once been a safe haven for persecuted Jews from across Europe. Learn about the resilience of the Amsterdam community during the "hunger-winter" of the war and the efforts undertaken to survive.

Walk through one of the University of Amsterdam campuses and capture a memorable moment as our guide snaps a photo of you next to a beautiful canal, preserving your Amsterdam experience

Learn about the history of our Royal Palace, uncovering the transition from a Republic to a Monarchy. Meet our current Royal Family through a collection of pictures. As the tour concludes at Dam Square, our guide will provide you with the last tips and tricks to make the most of your time in Amsterdam.

How much does this tour cost?

Free tours do not have a set price , instead, each person gives the guru at the end of the tour the amount that he or she considers appropriate (these usually range from €10 to $50 depending on satisfaction with the tour).

Tour opinions

Tour opinions (1286)

Nicholas’ tour was excellent and very informative! We highly recommend a Guru walk with Nicholas if you’re visiting Amsterdam!

We have enjoyed a lot our tour!

Nic was informative and fun to talk with. He really did show us the story of Amsterdam we wouldn't have known if we were on our own. Highly recommended!

Great tour for familles and friends who want to learn about Amsterdam! Really good!

Who is this tour for?

What should you know, others cities to visit after amsterdam.

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