Dublin, Ireland is a busy and diverse city. In western Ireland, the coast is only a short bus ride away from the hectic city center. There is so much to see, and with the correct planning it is possible to experience Dublin in one day on a budget.
While using the Dublin Bus system, do not hesitate to ask the drivers for assistance. From my personal experience, they are very friendly and always happy to assist you in figuring out how to get where you want to go. Also, whenever possible, sit on the top level of the bus, in the front row. The windows are big and allow for a very personal Dublin experience. Taking pictures from this location will also allow you to get pictures of places you would otherwise just pass by.
From the Dublin Airport, take the 747 bus towards downtown Dublin to O’Connell Street. Walk south down O’Connell Street, towards the River Liffey. Take time to enjoy the shops and architecture, both new and old. Once you reach the River Liffey, stroll across the beautiful O’Connell Bridge and take some great photos of the sparkling water.
After you cross the bridge, stay to the left on D’Olier St., when you reach Pearse St. turn left. Once you reach College St., turn right and enjoy the green lawns, impressive architecture and statues at Trinity College. After exploring the beautiful campus, get on the 46a bus on Nassau St., heading South, and take it to St. Stephen’s Green. In St. Stephen’s Green, both the lawns and statues can be appreciated. This green sanctuary will be a nice break from the bustling streets.
When you have taken in all you can of the green lawns, take the 46a bus again, north towards Westmoreland Street. On Westmoreland St, take time to explore a little, noticing the remarkable old buildings including the Bank of Ireland, which was originally built as the Irish House of Parliament. Back track just a bit to College Green and turn right. Continue on College Green, it will turn into Dame St. Dublin Castle is a short distance up Dame St on the left hand side, just behind the city hall.
There is one more important sight to see before you take your much needed break. Catch bus 78a on Dame St and take it south to St. Patrick’s Cathedral. This old cathedral, built to honor Ireland’s patron saint, is truly magical. If you wish to enter the cathedral, you will be charged a small admission.
This is a great time for a short break. Take 78a bus back to Dame St. Start walking back towards Westmoreland and jump on the 151 Bus (east towards Docklands). Get off at the Custom House and catch Bus 31b to Howth. Taking pictures of the Custom House is a good idea now, but even better at night! Once on this bus, enjoy the drive out to Howth Village. This bus ride will take you through some of Dublin you haven’t yet seen, and some beautiful residential areas.
When you reach the village of Howth, get off the bus at any of the stops in the small downtown. When you exit the bus, keep walking in the direction the bus was headed. This quaint boating village is full of bungalows and old architecture. The sea is not too far from any bus stop.
Once the water comes into sight, so do the views! This is Dublin at its finest, with rolling green hills and waves crashing upon rocky shores. Boats are docked to the left, and a lighthouse can be seen behind them. Great pictures can be taken from walking out to the lighthouse.
Spending time in Howth is a great break from the busy and hectic city that is Dublin. This is a great time, and perfect location in Dublin, to go and see another wonder of Dublin. Get on the 31b bus back towards downtown, and take it to Amiens St. At Amiens St, get on the 42 bus to Malahide.
Once again, enjoy to leisurely bus ride. When entering Malahide, keep your eyes peeled to the right side of the road. You will see a sign that says Malahide Castle. Get off the bus at the next stop and make your way back to the sign. Enter, where you saw the sign, and there will be a soccer (football) field to your left. Stay to the right, and follow the signs to the Malahide Castle.
This enchanting walk will lead you through a beautiful green forest area. When you think that you have gone too far and you missed it, keep walking. The castle will appear to your right. Taking pictures from the outside and strolling through the gift shop is a great alternative to paying the fee for a tour. It is a perfect outing for those on a budget. If you wish to purchase tour tickets, they may be bought in the gift shop, using pounds or credit card.
Take your time here before heading back into the city. When you have had your fill of rest and relaxation, get on the 42 bus back to downtown. Get off of the bus near the Custom House. Cross over the River Leffy on the Butt Bridge and appreciate the beautiful views from all sides. By now, you are hungry, and it is time to eat. Walk along the beautiful River Leffy until you reach Westmoreland. Take a left and adore the north side of Westmoreland that you haven’t seen yet. Make a right on Temple Bar and enjoy picking out somewhere to eat!
Temple Bar offers a great deal of choices, most offering that authentic Irish feel and flavor. This is where many of the exterior shots for old Ireland were filmed for the movie “Far and Away” with Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman. While I was at Temple Bar, I heard that the cobble stone streets running through the area were redone just for the movie. Temple Bar is usually crowded and can get a bit rowdy as the day wears on and alcohol consumption increases. Be prepared to appreciate the truly authentic Irish feel.
After you have eaten, drank, rested, and took pictures around Temple Bar, it will most likely be heading into night. Photographs taken from any of the bridges, in the evening, are truly magical. Stroll the cobblestone streets, breathing in Dublin. With a large police presence in the downtown area, crime rates remain low.
Dublin, though crowded and busy, is a beautiful place to enjoy Ireland. Here is how you may see Dublin, in one day, on a budget!
Advice-When visiting Ireland make sure to take an umbrella and jacket!
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