8 Things You Must Do in Dublin: From Victorian Pubs to Vikings, Riverdance and Hidden History
Dublin is a city bursting with character, where centuries of history, world-famous music, lively pubs and unexpected discoveries are all within easy reach. From spectacular Irish dancing performances and traditional Victorian pubs to Viking adventures and hidden historic landmarks, Ireland's capital offers something for every kind of traveller. Whether you're visiting for the first time or rediscovering the city on a weekend break, there's no shortage of unforgettable experiences. The Trinity City Hotel has rounded up eight of the best things to do in Dublin, combining the city's most iconic attractions with a few lesser-known treasures that make the Irish capital so special!
1. Experience Riverdance at the Gaiety Theatre
Few performances capture the energy of Irish culture quite like Riverdance. Combining traditional Irish dancing with extraordinary choreography and live music, the show has become a worldwide phenomenon since its Eurovision debut in Dublin in 1994.
There's something particularly special about experiencing it at the historic Gaiety Theatre, which first opened its doors in 1871. Its ornate Victorian interiors provide the perfect backdrop for an evening celebrating Irish music and dance.
Riverdance returned to the Gaiety for its 30th-anniversary summer season in 2026. Future performances are worth watching for, although the show isn't a year-round Dublin fixture.
2. Take a Victorian Pub Crawl Through Dublin
Forget modern cocktail bars for an evening. Some of Dublin's finest drinking establishments have barely changed in more than a century, and exploring them is practically a history lesson in itself.
Start at The Long Hall on South Great George's Street, famous for its red velvet seating, polished wood and elaborate Victorian decoration.
Continue to The Palace Bar on Fleet Street, a favourite haunt of Dublin's literary and journalistic circles, before exploring the city's other traditional pubs.
Another must-visit is The Swan Bar on Aungier Street, a beautifully preserved Victorian pub dating back to 1661, with traditional wooden interiors, historic charm and a fascinating connection to the 1916 Easter Rising.
These establishments are more than somewhere to enjoy a pint of Guinness. They're living pieces of Dublin's social history, where conversation, storytelling and the occasional bit of mischief remain part of the experience.
3. Visit the Shrine of St Valentine
Here's something you might not expect: the remains of the patron saint of love are housed in a church in Dublin.
Tucked away on Aungier Street, Whitefriar Street Church contains a shrine dedicated to St Valentine, whose relics were presented to the church by Pope Gregory XVI in 1836.
Today, visitors can see the shrine, light a candle and discover one of the capital's most unusual religious landmarks. It's a particularly lovely stop for couples, but equally fascinating for anyone interested in Dublin's lesser-known history.
4. Discover Ireland's Global Story at EPIC Museum
Ireland's history extends far beyond its own shores, and nowhere tells that story quite like EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum. Located in the historic CHQ Building in Dublin's Docklands, this interactive museum explores how Irish emigrants influenced the world through music, politics, science, sport and culture.
Across 20 immersive galleries, visitors can discover stories of people who left Ireland, the challenges they faced and the extraordinary contributions they made abroad.
It's a particularly meaningful experience for visitors with Irish ancestry, but the combination of storytelling and interactive technology makes it appealing to almost everyone.
5. Walk Through Irish History at Dublin Castle
Few buildings have witnessed as much Irish history as Dublin Castle. Originally constructed in the 13th century on the site of a Viking settlement, the castle became the centre of English and later British administration in Ireland for approximately 700 years.
Its most significant modern moment came on 16 January 1922, when revolutionary leader Michael Collins arrived with members of the new Provisional Government to receive the formal handover of Dublin Castle from the last British Viceroy. It was an extraordinary symbolic moment, marking the transfer of power after centuries of British rule. The castle's State Apartments, medieval remains and magnificent ceremonial rooms tell the story of Ireland's changing political identity.
Visitor note: Dublin Castle is closed to public visits for the remainder of 2026, with reopening expected in January 2027. Check arrangements before planning a visit.
6. Become a Viking on the Viking Splash Tour
For something completely different, climb aboard Viking Splash Dublin, one of the city's most entertaining sightseeing experiences. Passengers travel through Dublin aboard a World War II-era amphibious vehicle, discovering the capital's Viking history, Georgian architecture and famous landmarks with the help of enthusiastic guides. Expect Viking helmets, plenty of roaring and a good dose of Irish humour. The highlight comes when the vehicle leaves the road and splashes into the water at Grand Canal Dock for a short cruise.
It's a brilliant choice for families, groups of friends or anyone who prefers their history lessons with a little excitement.
7. Listen to the Buskers on Grafton Street
Some of Dublin's best entertainment doesn't require a ticket. Grafton Street, the city's famous pedestrianised shopping street, is also one of Ireland's best-known locations for live street music. Over the years, musicians including Glen Hansard and Dermot Kennedy have performed on Dublin's streets, contributing to a busking tradition that remains central to the city's musical identity.
On any given afternoon, you might encounter an acoustic singer, a talented guitarist or a crowd gathered around an unexpected performance. Grab a coffee, wander towards St Stephen's Green and take a few minutes to enjoy the music. It's one of the simplest and most authentic experiences Dublin has to offer.
8. Spot Wild Deer in Phoenix Park
You don't have to leave Dublin to experience a little Irish wilderness.
Phoenix Park, one of Europe's largest enclosed urban parks, is home to a herd of wild fallow deer that has lived in the park for centuries.
The deer are one of Dublin's most beautiful and unexpected sights, particularly during the autumn months when the park's trees turn golden. Visitors can explore the park's walking and cycling routes, discover historic monuments and enjoy a peaceful escape from the busy city centre.
The deer are wild animals, so it's important to admire them from a safe distance without feeding or approaching them.
Where to Stay in Dublin: Trinity City Hotel
With so many attractions scattered across the capital, choosing the right location can make a huge difference to your Dublin city break.
The Trinity City Hotel is a four-star, Irish-owned hotel on Pearse Street, just minutes from Trinity College and within easy walking distance of Grafton Street, Temple Bar and many of the city's best cultural attractions.
Its location makes it particularly convenient for exploring Dublin on foot, whether you're heading to the Gaiety Theatre for an evening performance, discovering historic pubs or spending an afternoon in the Docklands.
The hotel itself has an interesting history, incorporating original Georgian buildings and a former fire station, alongside contemporary bedrooms, a courtyard restaurant and the Brunswick Bar.
After a day of sightseeing, it's a comfortable place to return for dinner or a drink before heading out to experience Dublin's nightlife. And that's perhaps the best thing about visiting Dublin: you can spend the morning discovering revolutionary history, the afternoon watching wild deer and the evening listening to live music in a Victorian pub.
There aren't many capitals where you can fit quite so much into one weekend.
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