Day 1: The Best of Dublin in 24 Hours
Trinity College & Georgian Dublin
Start at Trinity College to see the Book of Kells and the stunning Long Room library (€18 combined ticket). Cross into the cobblestone Front Square, then walk through the Georgian streets of Merrion Square, with its colourful doors, Oscar Wilde statue, and the National Gallery of Ireland (free). Grab a coffee at 3FE on Grand Canal Street, one of Dublin's best speciality roasters.
Temple Bar & Dublin Castle
Walk through Temple Bar. Yes, it's touristy, but the cobbled lanes, buskers, and vintage shops are genuinely charming midweek. Visit Dublin Castle's State Apartments (€8) and the Chester Beatty Library next door (free, stunning collection of manuscripts from every civilisation). Lunch at Bunsen on Essex Street, Dublin's cult burger joint with queues for a reason.
Guinness, Trad Music & Pub Culture
Take the Luas Red Line to the Guinness Storehouse (€26 online, includes a pint with panoramic views from the Gravity Bar). Walk back through the Liberties neighbourhood. End at The Cobblestone in Smithfield for authentic trad music sessions: no cover, no tourists pretending to like it. Pints of Guinness here are €5.80, a rarity in Dublin now.
