Want to explore some of Ireland’s capital city’s attractions but don’t want to burn a hole in your wallet. Fear not as Eye on Éire has you sorted. Read along to find out some of the best free activities and locations Dublin has to offer. Whether you are a broke student or simply wanting to explore some of the city’s offerings without breaking the bank, our list should have you sorted. Enjoy our list of the best free places to visit in Dublin.
1) National Gallery of Ireland
First up on our list is the National Gallery of Ireland. Located just on Merrion Square and a short stroll from Trinity College Dublin this museum boasts an extensive collection of 16, 300 pieces of art. The museum’s collections include artwork from many Irish and European artists alongside some well-known names. If you are an art or history enthusiast or even just fancy exploring one of Dublin’s famous buildings, the National Gallery of Ireland is a must-visit. Admission to the Gallery is free, so there is no excuse not to cast an eye on what this venue has to offer.
2) Phoenix Park
Dublin’s Phoenix Park holds the title of the largest enclosed public space in Europe. The park is a popular spot amongst cyclists, runners and Segway tours. You can hire a bike to cycle around the park, or if you wish to do something a little different, you can organise to take a Segway tour around. The park is home to Dublin Zoo, the Victorian Gardens, Áras an Uachtaráin
as well as many deer. So if animal photography is your thing the Phoenix Park is the place to be.
3) Áras an Uachtaráin
Within Dublin’s Phoenix park you will find the current residence of Ireland’s President Michael D. Higgins, his wife Sabina and his two Bernese mountain dogs Bród and Síoda. The house itself was built in 1751 by Park Ranger Nathaniel Clements. The house has been the residence of the president of Ireland since 1938. Guided tours take place on Saturdays all year round. This is a must-visit if you are a fan of history, architecture or the man himself Miggeldy.
4) St. Stephen’s Green
Located in the city centre just off Dublin’s famous Grafton Street is St. Stephens Green. The park has a rich history and often hosts many activities during the year such as art exhibitions and dance performances.
5) The National Botanic Gardens
Nestled just north of the city in the Suburb of Glasnevin lies the National Botanic Gardens. Admission to the gardens is free. You can roam around outside the extensive gardens, or explore one of the many glasshouses. Within the greenhouses, you will find an array of plants, flowers and trees ranging from orchids to palms and succulents. A must visit if you are in the Northside of the City.
6) Glasnevin Cemetery
A stroll from the National Botanic Gardens you will find Glasnevin Cemetery. The tower can be seen from the National Botanic Gardens and around other surrounding areas of the cemetery. The cemetery itself opened in 1832, and many famous Irish figures graves lie within this site. Those who are buried in Glasnevin cemetery include Constance Markievictz, Michael Collins, Charles Stewart Parnell among others. At the entrance to the cemetery, there is a museum and Café. The museum led tours are usually around €14; however, you can explore the cemetery yourself free of charge. But if you wish to learn more the tour is an excellent option.
What do you think of our list? Can you recommend any of your favourite free places to visit in Dublin? Let us know in the comments below or on our Instagram, Twitter, or TikTok. There are plenty more free things to do in Dublin. Stay tuned for more travel lists from Eye on Éire.