Curator’s statement
Dublin is one of our favorite European city break destinations. Three days in Dublin is the perfect amount of time to hit the major sites, soak up the culture and, of course, have plenty of time to experience the pubs/bars, afternoon teas and amazing food! Obviously, Dublin is perfect for any combination of travelers, but we think the food and culture make it awesome for a mother-daughter escape. While summer may be a tempting time to plan your visit, we prefer March to May or September to November when the crowds are gone and you can book restaurants, activities and hotels with a lot less effort and expense.
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Where to stay in Dublin, Ireland
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Things to do in Dublin, Ireland
Must see and do experiences in Dublin, Ireland, include the Trinity College Library, Guiness Storehouse, Ha’Penny Bridge, Temple Bar and Dublin Castle. However, we want to share some of our local favorites that you might not find with a quick Google:
Food Tour
We always include a walking food tour of Dublin on our itineraries. A food tour is one of our favorite ways to get the lay of the land, learn some history and have the opportunity to try local food/beverages from small purveyors.
Local shopping
We love Avoca for Irish souvenirs (blankets, scarfs and socks.) The fact that they have a little food hall and a restaurant that serves amazing coffee/tea and cakes makes it an even better stop.
Powerscourt Center - This quirky shopping mall is built into an old Georgian Mansion. A fun mix of high-end boutiques, homeware and jewelry stores. Check out The Pepper Pot for lunch or tea while your there. Order the Victoria sponge cake!
Places to eat & drink in Dublin, Ireland
Breakfast/Brunch
An Irish breakfast is not to be missed! We have a lot of favorites but these two rank at the top:
The Fumbally Cafe is a quaint little neighborhood gem cafe with a very chill vibe. Along with their amazing menu they also have the Fumbally “market,” where we always pick up a foodie souvenir or two. Fumbally Eggs and their Babka, yum!
Brother Hubbard is an amazing Middle Easter/Irish brunch spot. Moroccan Eggs and Lemon-Meringue Brioche French Toast, yes please! Their menu hits all dietary requirements including vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free and meat eaters!
Coffee/Tea
There is just something about the weather in Dublin that makes the coffee and tea taste so good. The amazing scones and cakes might be a contributing factor too!
Don't miss afternoon tea and a treat at Queen of Tarts where everything is delish. Highly recommend you try at least one scone with butter and clotted cream. We love sitting outside if the weather permits.
The baristas at Kaph will make you an amazing coffee (great matcha lattes too.) You can get it to go or hang out on one of two floors. Real coffee when you need it!
Cocktails
The Vintage Cocktail Club is a speakeasy with amazing vintage cocktails tucked away behind a discreet door (with VCC on the door) in Temple Bar. You need to ring a doorbell to be let inside. Reservations are a must!
Dinner
Yes, a former church now a restaurant and bar, The Church even has Irish music and step dancing! If you don’t go for dinner just do drinks!
If your not staying at The Shelbourne definitely plan on having a drink and dinner at the No. 27 bar. The G&T and Fish & Chips are a match made in heaven!
Little Pyg does not serve Irish food, but it does serve Michelin guide pizza! Its a total vibe at night and the cocktails are spot on too. They do fun pop ups as well so check their website to see what’s happening while your there.
Ice Cream at Murphys is a requirement in our eyes. Brown Bread? Black Currant & Dingle Sea Salt? You get the idea.
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Travel Advisor
Julie Middlebrook-Levin
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For more travel tips, check out Elena Federico's Fora guide, Guide to a Luxury Long Weekend Getaway in Dublin.
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Dublin.