Exploring Dublin on a Budget

Ok, it’s no secret that Dublin is not the cheapest city, for both residents and visitors alike. In fact a study conducted by money.co.uk last year identified Dublin as Europe’s Most Expensive Place to Visit ahead of Prague in second place and Edinburgh in third (Andrews, 2022). That's not exactly a list any city wants to be top of...

However, we're here to reassure you that Dublin is extremely doable on a budget so if you’re looking to plan a weekend visit that won’t break the bank, then fear not. You’ve come to the right place.

Here are our best tips for a budget friendly weekend in Dublin.

Parks

You will be spoilt for choice in Dublin with loads of parks to explore in the city centre such as St Stephen’s Green and Iveagh Gardens. The Phoenix Park is not only historic but also one of the largest enclosed parks in Europe (Civitatis, 2023). It is home to the President of Ireland as well as the US Ambassador plus you can see hundreds of wild deer that have been living there for centuries. There are cafes dotted near and within the park itself making it the perfect place to have a relaxing stroll or a picnic.

Take a free walking tour 

If history is your thing, then availing of walking tours are often the best way to learn more about your destination. Dublin is no different. Dublin Free Walking Tour has been running since 2014 and meets everyday at 11am at The Spire on O’Connell St. It covers Trinity College, Temple Bar, Dublin Castle, Christchurch Cathedral, and St Patrick’s Cathedral and is guided by a local expert, just make sure to tip your guide at the end of the tour! 

Free museums 

Dublin gets more than its fair share of rainy days so a trip to one of its many museums can be a worthy option when the weather just isn’t playing ball.

The National Gallery of Ireland was established in 1864 and houses an impressive array of Irish, Italian Baroque and Dutch masters artworks (Ireland Holiday Home, 2023). Admission to the permanent collection is free while some temporary exhibitions may carry a charge so it’s worth visiting their website in advance to check out what’s on display.

Nicknamed the “Dead Zoo”, the Natural History Museum is free of charge to enter and has exhibits dedicated to Irish fauna and animal species from around the world. The museum is open 7 days a week and is located by Merrion Square Park.

Accommodation

Ok, Dublin accommodation in general can be expensive. However, there are some gems to be found in great locations that won’t cost the earth. 

The Hendrick Smithfield is a great budget hotel just around the corner from Smithfield which has an array of quality bars and restaurants. It’s close to the LUAS (Dublin’s light rail system) and it’s within walking distance to all city centre amenities and attractions. Deals here start at €125 per night.

If you’re looking for something really central in the tourist district of Temple Bar, then Handel’s Hotel is another great option. It’s a no-frills 3-star base with clean rooms and comfy beds. The hotel’s location really is the selling point here and deals start at €109 per night.

Food and Drinks

From authentic local Irish pub grub to a range of international restaurants and food outlets, there is no shortage of food options to please all pallets and budgets.

North of the river Liffey, Capel St is a hive of activity for authentic Asian Food in Dublin. Aobaba Vietnamese restaurant offers up super cheap, incredibly tasty dishes with two large meals averaging at €30 with drinks included.

Pablo Picante is a delicious Burrito Bar chain with 5 branches dotted around Dublin city centre. Their grub is incredibly tasty and cheap with a burrito and drink coming in for under a tenner, bargain! 

If you fancy a pizza and a pint for €12 look no further than Cassidy’s which is well placed on Westmoreland St and boasts a selection of Irish and international craft beers to choose from. 

Do you have your own tips and suggestions for a weekend in Dublin? Why not include them in the comments below and share with the Travel Exchangers community. 

Blogpost by: Eila (Ireland)

#Dublin #DublinOnABudget, Travel #DublinFood #DublinDrink

Reference List:

Andrews, J. (2022) The Ultimate City Break, Money.co.uk. Available at: https://www.money.co.uk/travel/city-break-index (Accessed: February 25, 2023). 

Civitatis (2023) Phoenix Park - Europe's largest park. Available at: https://www.introducingdublin.com/phoenix-park (Accessed: March 25, 2023). 

Ireland Holiday Home (2023) Best Museums in Dublin. Available at: https://www.irelandholidayhome.com/museums-dublin-ireland (Accessed: February 25, 2023).