24/7 in Dublin: 10 things to see and do in the Irish capital 

If you fancy yourself a flâneur, then a stroll around Dublin’s Georgian Quarter—an area brimming with period buildings and colourful doors—is a must. This lovely district is home to the distinguished Merrion Hotel, which consists of four meticulously restored Grade I Listed Georgian townhouses built in the 1760s for wealthy merchants and nobility. With 142 rooms and suites plus the two-Michelin-starred restaurant Patrick Guilbaud in residence, the hotel is worth the splurge for old-school luxury with an Irish flair.

Merrion Street Upper, Dublin 2 | www.merrionhotel.com

Those seeking a taste of modern Dublin would love this gleaming hotel in the heart of Dublin Docklands. Sitting at the edge of Grand Canal Quay and next to the Daniel Libeskind-designed Bord Gais theatre is the Anantara The Marker Hotel, a sleek, pet-friendly property that has all the creature comforts. It’s the ideal homebase to discover the “Silicon Docks”—the area’s nickname referring to the concentration of tech companies situated here. The cherry on top (literally) is the hotel’s rooftop bar, the perfect perch to take in the glorious cityscape… just hope that you get good weather.

Grand Canal Quay, Docklands, Dublin 2 | anantara.com/en/the-marker-dublin

You’d think our sourdough obsession peaked during the pandemic but there’s still plenty of appetite for it, especially if you find a place that makes it like Bread 41. Founded by Eoin Cluskey, who is passionate about artisan bread and natural sourdough bread making, this cult bakery crafts the most delicious loaves and mouth-watering pastries that inspire snaking queues outside its doors. Treat yourself to an Irish staple like brown bread, but also indulge in their seasonal creations like the apricot and basque cheesecake croissant.

41 Pearse Street, Dublin 2 | bread41.ie

Dublin is flush with pubs of all shapes and sizes but if you’re looking for one with real character then skip Temple Bar and head to this local favourite close to Georgian Dublin. Established in 1734, Toners is one of the city’s oldest pubs and the snug is said to be the spot of choice of literary legend W.B. Yeats. Today, it’s popular for post-work drinks and group get-togethers, with the fun spilling out onto their spacious beer garden. Park yourself indoors or outdoors and get a pint of the “best Guinness in town” or take your pick from their great selection of whiskey.

139 Baggot Street Lower, Dublin 2 | tonerspub.ie

The restaurant’s name alludes to its location, being housed in the basement of the Dublin Writers Museum and the Irish Writers’ Centre in Parnell Square. Chapter One has always had a stellar reputation, long considered to be one of Ireland’s best fine dining restaurants. Under the leadership of chef Mickael Viljanen, it has managed to gain even more acclaim including two Michelin stars under its belt. When that champions amazing Irish produce and showcases the level of culinary talent that call Ireland home.

18-19 Parnell Square N, Rotunda, Dublin 1 | chapteronerestaurant.com

This magnificent library is listed in every Dublin travel guide for good reason. Dubbed “the front room” of Ireland, this soaring library’s Long Room measures almost 65 metres in length, its vaulted chamber is filled to the brim with 200,000 tomes and manuscripts, including the ancient Book of Kells. Take in the old book smell lingering in the air soon—it’s currently undergoing a 90 million euro restoration to fireproof the building and will close its doors for at least three years from October 2023.

Trinity College Dublin, College Green, Dublin 2 | tcd.ie/visitors/events/venues/the-long-room

Wild swimming is a big thing in Ireland, so you’ll find brave souls taking a dip in the ocean no matter the weather. The most iconic spot to bare it all in the city is The Forty Foot, located on the southern tip of Dublin Bay in Sandycove. Even before this swimming spot was made famous by Bad Sisters, hundreds of hardy Dubliners have braved the cold and refreshing waters of the Irish Sea.

The Battery, Sandycove Point, Dún Laoghaire

Parks may not be the first thing that come to mind when you think of Dublin, but surprise, surprise: it has one of the largest enclosed city parks in Europe. Phoenix Park is a spot locals love, with all manner of walkers, joggers and cyclists taking in the expanse of green. The park is also home to lovely herds of wild fallow deer, and houses a very famous resident, the President of Ireland.

Phoenix Park, Dublin 8 | phoenixpark.ie

It’s hard to miss the dark green facade of Hodges Figgis, a beloved bookstore just a stone’s throw away from the main shopping area of Grafton Street. Established in 1768, this is Dublin’s oldest bookstore and one that is woven into the country’s literary scene (it’s name-checked in Sally Rooney’s Conversation With Friends). Go in for a browse… it’s a fair bet that something will catch your eye.

56-58 Dawson Street Dublin 2 | waterstones.com/bookshops/hodges-figgis

Ireland is a land of creatives and the hippest of them all are found at the city centre gallery-cafe, Hen’s Teeth. This multifaceted space brings food, art, music and culture together under one roof. Stop by for a flat white or a cocktail and browse their store stocking lovely art prints, food from independent Irish makers, and more. In the evening, the place transforms into a lovely spot for dinner and drinks.

Blackpitts, Dublin 8, Ireland | hensteethstore.com