Dublin has a way of surprising you when you least expect it. One moment you are caught up in the rush of city life, and the next you are walking through wide green parks, breathing in the sea breeze on a beach, or relaxing in a spa that makes the outside world feel far away. The mix of old stories and modern life makes Dublin interesting not only for those who live here but also for visitors who want to see more than just the usual spots.
Over the past few years, I have tried different adventures here, some planned and some completely unplanned, and each one turned into a memory worth keeping. If you are wondering what locals actually enjoy most, this guide to the best places to go in Dublin, recommended by locals, will give you plenty of ideas for your own trip.
So, keep reading to know more about the places that can turn an afternoon, a family day, or even an extra night into something special in Dublin!
North Bull Island
This visit was quite recent. One Sunday in late August, I finally gave myself a break from the routine. After weeks of staring at screens and feeling drained, I hopped on my bike and set out for North Bull Island. It is only about 9 km from the city centre, but the ride felt like exactly what I needed. My plan was simple: clear my head, breathe fresh air, and enjoy a bit of open space.
Crossing the old wooden bridge onto the island felt like stepping out of Dublin. Once I reached the beach, the view just opened up. It reminded me why coastal walks in Dublin are such a treat.
People were enjoying the place in their own ways. Some swimmers braved the cold water despite the red flags, others relaxed near the old changing huts, and a few kitesurfers zipped across the waves. I kept walking until I reached the dunes, where I slowed down to take it all in.
Later I learned that North Bull Island is more than just a beach. It is a national nature reserve supporting rare plants, seals, butterflies, and even lizards. In summer, the dunes become nesting grounds for skylarks and pipits, making it one of the most peaceful and best places to go in Dublin.
It is not perfect, though. On sunny weekends, it gets crowded, parking is tight, and I pass a few smelly patches of seaweed. Still, that rawness made it feel real, like nature doing its thing rather than a manicured park.
The council works hard to protect this balance. Visitors are asked to avoid the salt marshes where migratory birds feed and the northern tip where seals rest. Dogs are also welcome, but should stay on leads in sensitive areas.
For me, the trip was more than just an exercise. It gave me room to reset, and it reminded me that some of the best scenic walking trails near Dublin are surprisingly close. North Bull Island may sit on the edge of the city, but it feels wild, refreshing, and completely apart.
Malahide Castle and Gardens
Back in early July, during a short family trip to Dublin, we decided it was time for a break from the busy city. The kids wanted open space to run around, and I wanted a bit of history mixed with nature. That is how we ended up spending the day at Malahide Castle and Gardens. Just a 30-minute train ride away, yet it felt like we had travelled much further once we arrived.
The walk from the station to the castle was already worth it. Malahide village had a calm seaside vibe, and soon the parkland opened wide with 268 acres of green stretching in every direction. The castle itself looked like something straight out of a storybook, with its Norman tower house standing tall as if it had been guarding the place forever. No wonder it is one of the most loved Dublin castles locals recommend.
We joined the guided tour, and I am glad we did. The Talbot family lived here from 1185 to 1973, and their stories filled every corner of the rooms. Antique furniture, portraits on the walls, and the sense that real lives had played out here made history feel alive.
Outside, the energy shifted. The kids dashed into the fairy trail, hunting for tiny doors and clues, while we followed along, enjoying their excitement. We then visited the butterfly house, and it was warm, colourful, and filled with butterflies that landed just inches away.
The Talbot Botanic Gardens were next. Spread over 22 acres with more than 5,000 plant species, it felt like each path revealed something new. Towering trees, bright flowers, and quiet corners made it one of those best family-friendly places to go in Dublin that everyone could enjoy. By then, we were ready to recharge at the Avoca café. Coffee for us, sweet treats for the kids, and plenty of energy left for them to hit the playground nearby.
Looking back, Malahide Castle and Gardens gave us everything in one spot: history, nature, and fun. It is one of those historic places in Dublin that also doubles as the perfect family escape, and for us, it was easily one of the best choices we made.
Salt Cave Paradise
Last spring, a work meeting in Dublin ran late, and instead of heading home the next morning, I decided to stay an extra day with three colleagues. After hours of emails and conference calls, we all craved a proper break, so we set our sights on Salt Cave Paradise in Balbriggan. It sits about 37 kilometers from the city centre, but the drive felt quick once the thought of relaxation took over. If you’re searching for wellness retreats near Dublin, this one is a real find.
The rooftop jacuzzi and sauna were waiting for us, private and quiet, with soft steam rising in the air. Within minutes, the stress of the week started to fade. A glass of Prosecco in hand and easy conversation flowing, it felt like the city and its deadlines were miles away.
Next came the saltwater pool. Floating there felt effortless, almost like the water carried every heavy thought away. The mud masks added a playful moment, with everyone laughing at how silly we looked before rinsing off and enjoying how smooth our skin felt. The salt cave itself was another level of calm. Breathing in the salt-infused air under warm light slowed everything down, and even the most restless person in our group admitted it was impossible not to relax.
Not everything was perfect, though. The changing area was a little cramped, and a couple of showers weren’t working. But the staff more than made up for it with their friendliness and attention. They guided us through each step and made the whole visit feel personal.
By the time we left, the difference was clear. Muscles felt lighter, breathing came easier, and the stress of work had slipped far into the background. If you’re after the best family-friendly places to go in Dublin or just one of those best relaxing places in Dublin to share with friends, Salt Cave Paradise delivers. It’s more than a spa day, it’s the kind of reset that lingers long after you walk out the door.
Sandymount Strand
Last winter, during a vacation in Dublin, I took my cousin on a spontaneous trip to Sandymount Strand. After a few days in the city, we both needed space to breathe and a proper dose of sea air. Neither of us had visited it before, so there was that spark of curiosity that makes even a short outing feel like an adventure. The best part was how quickly it was to reach. A short train or bus ride from the city centre, about twenty minutes, and suddenly we were standing on the promenade.
The first thing that hit me was the sheer openness. With the tide out, the beach stretched endlessly into the distance. My cousin raced ahead, calling for me to keep up while I tried not to sink into the soft sand. Walking across the seabed felt surreal, like Dublin had quietly disappeared and we had stepped into a new world. Around us, dogs sprinted after balls, people strolled slowly, and joggers moved along the wide, smooth promenade. It was easy to see why this is one of the best and most popular coastal walks in Dublin.
Halfway along, we came across the Sandymount Martello Tower, built in 1804 to defend against Napoleon. Its sturdy walls and cannon-ready rooftop still looked imposing. I imagined soldiers keeping watch, while my cousin laughed at the tiny doorway once reached only by ladder. It added a fun twist to history, making the walk feel more than just a beach outing. Spots like this show why Sandymount belongs among the best memorable historic places in Dublin.
At the northern end, we found the sculpture An Cailín Bán, a striking gift from the Mexican government. We paused for photos, joked about what it would be like to live by the sea with art on the doorstep, and then treated ourselves to ice cream. Nearby grassy banks gave the kids space to kick a ball, while we soaked in calm views of Dublin Bay and Poolbeg Lighthouse.
By the time we left, the wind had picked up, but instead of feeling cold and worn out, I felt refreshed. Sandymount Strand is one of those peaceful outdoor spots in Dublin where you can enjoy nature, catch a bit of history, and leave already thinking about your next visit.
Glendalough Visitor Centre
Last autumn, during a family getaway from Dublin, we decided to spend a full day at Glendalough Visitor Centre. It was about a 1.5-hour drive, but we were excited for a mix of history, nature, and some quality time together away from the city. My partner and I brought our two kids, and everyone was ready for an adventure.
We started at the Visitor Centre, paying four euros for parking. The staff were friendly and handed us a map, which turned out to be really handy for planning our route. The small exhibits gave us a quick and engaging history of Glendalough, which made exploring the site feel much more meaningful.
Our first stop was the monastic ruins. The round tower and St Kevin’s cemetery immediately drew our attention. The gravestones fascinated the kids, especially one from the 1700s. I found the stonework of the round tower particularly striking, imagining how it had stood tall for over a thousand years. As we wandered through the stone churches and St Kevin’s Kitchen, we felt like we were stepping back in time.
Next, we followed the walking trails that led us through streams, dense woodlands, and eventually to the stunning upper lake. The walk was easy enough for the kids, and there were so many spots where we paused just to take in the scenery. The mix of peaceful nature and historical ruins made it an experience for everyone.
We also made time to visit nearby attractions, including the Monastery Gatehouse and St Peter and St Paul’s Cathedral. Each spot had its own story, and it was fun comparing notes on what caught each of us the most.
We spotted the small café at the Visitor Centre, but we decided to bring our own picnic and enjoy it by the upper lake. Sitting on the grassy banks with the water in front of us was much more relaxing than inside. The toilets were generally clean, though a few soap dispensers were empty, which was a minor hiccup. The centre itself is fully accessible, though the paths around the graveyard can be tricky for wheelchairs, so it’s something to keep in mind if you’re visiting with limited mobility.
By the end of the day, we were tired but happy. Glendalough gave us the perfect mix of history, nature, and family time. It’s one of those places where you can slow down, explore at your own pace, and leave feeling refreshed and inspired in Dublin. We can’t wait to go back and discover even more of the trails and ruins next time.
Viking Splash Tour
The Viking Splash Tour is not your usual way of seeing Dublin, and that’s exactly what makes it so much fun. Last summer, I joined a group of friends to try it out, and within minutes, we knew it was going to be a day to remember. The meeting point was only a short walk from the city centre, which made it easy to get there, and we arrived full of curiosity and laughs.
The fun began as soon as we put on the Viking helmets. We looked ridiculous and couldn’t stop laughing. Climbing aboard the bright yellow vehicle, we set off through the streets of Dublin. Along the way, our guide shared quirky stories and jokes about the city’s past. Every so often, we leaned out and shouted our best Viking roars at surprised pedestrians, and their reactions kept us laughing the whole way. It was one of those unique things to do in Dublin that mixes silliness with sightseeing.
The city part of the tour was already a blast. Passing by well-known buildings and historic places in Dublin from such a playful perspective made the experience stand out. But the real highlight came when the vehicle rolled straight into the water. The sudden splash made everyone scream, grab their seats, and then burst into laughter as we floated past old ferries, mills, and hidden parts of the city you don’t normally get to see.
The full tour runs about an hour on land and another fifteen minutes on the water, which felt like just the right amount of time. The open vehicle can be breezy, so a jacket is handy, and since the helmets are reused, wipes are a smart extra to bring along. There are no toilet breaks, but the laughs and excitement keep you too busy to notice.
By the time it wrapped up, we were soaked, still laughing, and already retelling the funniest moments. If you’re visiting with friends and want one of those fun activities in Dublin that will have you talking for weeks, this tour is worth it. We finished the day grinning and already planning who we’d bring along for the next round.
Phoenix Park
Last April, I had a free afternoon in Dublin and called up two friends. After a busy morning in the city, we all agreed it was time to swap crowded streets for fresh air. Phoenix Park felt like the perfect choice. Just 3.5 kilometers from the centre, it offers the kind of escape that makes you forget how close you are to town.
As soon as we stepped inside, the size of the park caught our attention. Even though it sits right in the city, it felt more like a stretch of countryside. We started off down one of the main avenues, joking about who would spot the first squirrel or unusual bird. With paths wide enough for both walkers and cyclists, everyone could enjoy it at their own pace. It’s easy to see why it’s considered one of the best places to go in Dublin.
Not long after, we spotted a herd of deer grazing in the open fields. Instead of running away, they simply watched us, calm and unbothered. We crept closer, laughing about who would end up chased, before moving on to let them be.
Further in, we settled near the Papal Cross and unpacked a few snacks. The grass was soft, the sun was warm, and it felt like the perfect picnic spot. Around us, joggers passed by, dogs ran after balls, and in the distance, a group practiced polo. Later, we wandered through the flower gardens, playfully competing to see who could name the most plants. With so many paths, corners, and open stretches, Phoenix Park felt like one of those scenic walking trails near Dublin where there’s always something different to enjoy.
By the time we finished our loop, we were pleasantly tired and full of stories to retell. Phoenix Park had given us space, surprises, and a reminder that nature can be right at the city’s doorstep. It is one of those historic places in Dublin that doubles as a green retreat, perfect for families, friends, or anyone looking for a simple break close to home.
Looking back at these trips, what stands out isn’t just the places themselves but how different each one felt. One day it was history wrapped in castle walls, another it was deer wandering freely, and another it was saltwater and laughter with friends. Dublin may be a city, but it never takes long to step into something refreshing, whether it’s nature, stories from the past, or just a space to breathe.
If you ever find yourself here with a spare afternoon or a full free day, don’t just stick to the usual spots. Try one of these best escapes in Dublin, let the city surprise you, and you might end up leaving with a memory you didn’t even know you were looking for!
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