One of the best things about living in Dublin is that there's always a new and exciting way to spend all the money you don't have. But once you do make the decision to save some spondoolies, you might actually be surprised at the amount of events and things to do in Dublin that won't cost you a penny. With that in mind, we've teamed up with AIB to tell you about the best free events in Dublin, to show you that saving for a deposit doesn't have to mean giving up your social life. The question is, how many of these can you fit in? (Psst! With the home buying calculator you can add up all you need to save for your new home including additional costs. This calculator also helps you estimate how much you need to save each month to get to your target within your timeframe. Monitor your savings' success with this handy savings calculator from AIB!)

1. Visit The Botanic Gardens

An oasis of calm in the middle of the city, check out the gardens if you want to relax and de-stress from city life.    

2. Dog-Friendly Dublin Mountains Guided Walk

Each month the Dublin Mountain Partnership runs free guided walks in the Dublin Mountains. The next one takes place this Saturday (October 27th) from Tibradden to Fairy Castle and return. Walkers will enjoy panoramic views over the city, to the Irish sea and south to the Wicklow Mountains (weather-permitting of course - sigh). While this hike is dog friendly you don’t need a dog to join. It kicks off at 11am and while it's free, you do need to pre-register. More info here!

3. Three Rock Cycle Loop

A classic route that is deceptively steep but well worth it for the views.

4. Niamh McCann Furtive Tears Exhibition

Where: Dublin City Gallery The Hugh Lane When: 4th October - 6th January "Furtive Tears is a project by Niamh McCann that explores the dynamic relationship between the audience, object and mode of display. In her new installation at the Hugh Lane, McCann brings together the protagonists Edward Carson (politician) and Hans Poelzig (architect and set designer) and the vestiges of their mythologies to portray the internal language of gesture, meaning, inference and allegiance."    

5. Visit National History Museum of Ireland

If you're looking for a crash course in all things Irish, look no further. If you wanna check out some cool skeletons you can check them out here too.  

6. Visit the Chester Beatty Library

The library boasts a collection of rare books, manuscripts and artwork that date back as far as 2700 BC. 'Nuff said, right?    

7. The Dodder Walk

This is perfect for people who shrink at the thought of a walk that will take more than an hour. Plus, it has some of the best views in south county Dublin.    

8. Sandeman’s Free Walking Tour

This three-hour tour departs every day from Dame Street at 11 am and 2 pm. The guides are well-informed and energetic.

9. Wolfgang Tillmans Exhibition @ Irish Museum of Modern Art

When: 26th October - 17th February Celebrated German artist and photographer Wolfgang Tillmans was the first non-British artist to win the Turner Prize when he won the award in 2000 and remains one of the most renowned names in his field.    

10. Visit the Iveagh Gardens

Known as Dublin's 'Secret Garden', this beautiful park has a waterfall and a yew maze. Perfect weekend adventure.     Are you thinking about buying your first home? We've got your back. We've teamed up with AIB to bring you all you need to know about applying for a mortgage and buying your first home in our one-stop-shop mortgage hub. Keep an eye on the mortgage hub to guide you through your journey, and find out what you would be eligible to borrow by using AIB's handy mortgage calculator here!