As Ireland’s capital, Dublin effortlessly marries rich history with modern exuberance. Its Georgian streets, timeless landmarks, and welcoming locals make it a destination of enduring appeal. In double measure in December.
In winter, the city transforms into a twinkling wonderland. Fairy lights festoon the cobbled streets and the merry hum of the cities famously inviting pubs offers fireside warmth. Whether you’re soaking up its literary heritage, indulging in seasonal local dishes, or instagramming its festive atmosphere, Dublin offers a charming and whimsical place to spend the winter days—with just the right amount of craic.
From the timeless beauty of Trinity College’s Long Room to the lively flavours of a thriving food culture, here’s how to relish a memorable day in Dublin.
Your Dublin Essentials
See: The Book of Kells at Trinity College, a masterpiece of medieval artistry that continues to dazzle over a millennium later. Don’t miss the adjacent Long Room Library, where towering shelves of ancient books make for an awe-inspiring sight.
Touch: The crispiest pizza crusts in maybe Europe. Sorry Italy; but Dublin is home to some wildly impressive pizza these days.
Smell: The malting hops at the the Guinness Storehouse like a true blue local.
Hear: The rousing tunes of live Irish music spilling out of pubs, blending seamlessly with the laughter of locals and visitors alike.
Taste: The rich, inventive small plates at Piglet wine bar, or the zingy Mediterranean dishes at Little Lemon—both perfect preludes to a night of theatre.
Morning — Dublin’s Literary Heritage
Begin your day at Trinity College, Ireland’s most famous university. The open campus is grandstandingly impressive but what it houses is doubly so. Here you can surround yourself with the future creative leaders of Ireland as they rush about getting their last bits done. Or you can immerse yourself in the brilliance of the Book of Kells. The Long Room Library, which inspired Star Wars, is also exceptionally beautiful in winter when its adorned with festive garlands. Its ancient oak-scented air and towering shelves of ancient volumes really makes you feel like you’re in the land of Saints and Scholars.
12:30 PM — Temple Bar’s Properly Mathematical Pizza
Temple Bar may be a magnet for tourists, but it also boasts undisputed gems worth seeking out. Pi Pizza serves up exceptional Neapolitan-style pizzas. Their winter truffle and mushroom option is a standout. Pair it with a proper Irish cider, or Wicklow Way’s Strawberry Wine and you’ve got a meal you genuinely can’t get anywhere else.
Afternoon — Festivities at the Guinness Storehouse
Listen you can’t come to Dublin and skip the Storehouse. Learning about the most famous stout in the world’s storied history is required. Here you’ll also master the art of pouring your own pint. Cap that off with a visit to the Gravity Bar. This is probably the best view in the whole city with its panoramic views of Dublin’s glittering skyline. It’s especially beautiful in the dark evenings when everyone has their twinklers on.
6 PM — Pre-Theatre Dining
Indulge in a pre-theatre dinner at Piglet. This is one of Dublin’s best wine bars. It’s known for its curated wine list and inventive small plates. Both just as impressive as each other. If that’s not the vibe you wanna surf then bask in the Mediterranean warmth of Little Lemon. Both venues promise an intimate atmosphere and impeccable flavours, setting the stage for a night to remember.
7:30 PM — A Night at the Gate Theatre
The thetre dahling, is so woven into the fabric of dublin at Christmas that you’ll be fighting the locals for tickets; but it’s perfect way to wrap up your day. This year the top choice is The Borrowers at the Gate Theatre. This enchanting adaptation of a beloved classic blends whimsy with Irish storytelling, all within the theatre’s beautifully adorned festive setting. It’s the perfect way to close your evening on a high note.
Day 2 — Departure with a Lasting Impression
Before heading home, pop into Kaph on Drury Street for a coffee brewed to perfection and a buttery pastry. It’s the sort of understated excellence that epitomises Dublin’s charm, and is right in the centre if you need to pick up some quick gifts for the family.
Essential Travel Tips
When to Visit: December wraps Dublin in its festive best. That said, layers are a must for the brisk winter air and one better be a rain jacket. Keep a sturdy umbrella handy to navigate the city’s unpredictable weather.
Do’s and Don’ts:
- Do: Pre-book tickets for popular attractions like the Book of Kells and Guinness Storehouse to skip the queues.
- Don’t: Attempt to navigate Temple Bar by car; Dublin’s narrow streets are best explored on foot.
- Do: Strike up a conversation in a pub—locals’ warmth and wit are an essential part of the experience.
- Don’t: Call it an early night. Dublin’s charm only deepens as the evening unfolds.
Dinner Party Trivia: Merrion Square’s illustrious history includes its most famous resident, Oscar Wilde. Toast to his legacy while basking in the square’s timeless appeal during the holiday season.
Head to VisitDublin.com for a full list of Winter in Dublin activities.
