How to make the most of your layover in Dublin

Dublin is a city that knows how to charm you in record time, which is perfect for a layover adventure! Just a short ride from the airport, Dublin is brimming with friendly locals, cozy pubs, and rich history that’ll make you want to linger.

Dublin is known for its warm atmosphere and dynamic spirit. The city offers something for everyone, whether you’re into ancient manuscripts at Trinity College, the iconic black pint at the Guinness Storehouse, or live music in the busy Temple Bar district.

Dublin’s walkable streets are filled with colorful doors, lively markets, and a deep cultural heritage. Even a few hours here gives you a taste of Irish culture that'll leave you with stories to take home. Whether you're here with mates or your SO, Dublin is always ready to show you its lively drinking culture!

Things to keep in mind before leaving the airport

Not sure if you can leave the Dublin Airport without a visa? Keep reading and find out everything you need about Dublin and its only airport. Airports can be intimidating, so this guide is here to prepare you with all the key information about rules, regulations, and spots for some R&R!

Visa requirements in Dublin

If you're from the EU, US, Canada, and other countries, you don't need a visa to enter Dublin for a short stay. If you're from countries like China, for example, you'll need a UK C visa for a 30-day stay. Citizens of some countries will also need a transit visa to pass through Irish airports. Make sure to check all the latest information on their official website.

Minimum layover times in Dublin

1. In-airport short layover:
2. Domestic flights: 1 hr
   A domestic layover won't take too long, especially if your flights are both booked on 1 ticket. The T1 and T2 terminals are within walking distance and you won't have to go through more security checks. Dublin Aiport also has self-service online check-ins, so you can skip a line if you're short on time. You can also book the Fast Track online for even speedier checkpoints.
3. International flights: 2 hrs
   If you're leaving or entering the UK, you'll have to go through customs, passport control, and security checks. Everyone arriving in Dublin has to go through customs. Head to the red line if you’ve got something to declare, and if not, stick to the green one. Are you self-connecting and have multiple plane tickets? It'll probably take more time to get through everything, so you should plan for that. Booking Platinum Services will get you an agent who will help every step of the way!
4. In-airport long layover: 3 hrs
   Got a few hours to chill while you wait for your next flight? Dublin Airport has all the shops you would expect to see. Jazz up your style at Estée Lauder, get your skin glowing with some skincare products at MAC, or grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants. You’ll find restaurants all around the airport and in the stylish and comfortable lounges with free drinks! Premium flyers get in free, but others will have to pay around  €30 to enter. If you're a frequent flyer, one of the Airport Club memberships will help you save time and money with Lounge and Fast Passes. There are also some baby-changing facilities to make your baby (and other passengers) more comfortable during the flight.
5. Out-of-airport layover: 6 hrs
   You can hop on the Dublin Express airport bus which will take you to Dublin Heuston railway station. The Dublin bus route takes an hour. Once you’re at the station, you can catch another bus or train to any part of the city! It has plenty of great spots to experience some Irish culture during your short Dublin layover!

What to do in Dublin during a layover

Not sure where to start exploring? Take a look at our list and start your self-guided tour of the best spots in and around Dublin's city centre. You're here for the Irish whiskey, aren't you? Well, whether you're on vacation with your best mates or your SO, you can hop on over to a Bounce partner near the airport. When you leave your baggage behind, you can start your bender worry-free!

Morning layover in Dublin

It’s not quite the thing to start the morning with alcohol. So while you're waiting for the happy hour, check out these top spots to visit in the morning:

1. Take a walk through Ireland's oldest university, Trinity College, and take a gander at The Book of Kells, an illuminated ancient manuscript and Celtic Gospel.
2. Need some souvenirs? George's Street Arcade is a historic indoor market with a variety of clothes shops and art.
3. Queen of Tarts is the place to be for breakfast classics like scones and fresh pastries.
4. You can’t visit Dublin and miss some of the classic Irish pubs! Kehoe's Pub serves up some traditional Irish and UK breakfast options.

Afternoon layover in Dublin

It's almost happy hour, just a little more! Here are some more spots to keep you busy while you wait:

1. Quench your thirst at the Guinness Storehouse where you can taste some iconic beer and learn its brewing process and history.
2. EPIC, The Irish Emigration Museum is the perfect spot to learn some fascinating history of Irish emigration.
3. Craving some fish and chips? Maybe some hearty stews? The Wollen Mills is the perfect, calm, comfortable, riverside setting for a delicious and romantic meal.
4. Gallagher's Boxty House serves traditional boxty (Irish potato pancakes) and is a perfect stop in the Temple Bar area.

Evening layover in Dublin

It's time for some Irish culture and alcohol! Take a look at great spots to get the night rolling:

1. Dublin Castle is an essential stop for history lovers. It was a fortress, a royal residence, and now a government complex. It's full of Irish history.
2. For a memorable night out, Temple Bar District is the place to be! Colorful pubs, shops, and restaurants are what you'll find in the heart of Dublin's nightlife.
3. The Brazen Head is Ireland's oldest pub. It dates back to 1198 and serves the best traditional Irish stew.
4. Food and entertainment, that's what The Old Storehouse has for you. Try bangers and mash while watching some live Irish music performances in the evening.

Overnight layover in Dublin

The night is winding down. So, it's time to plan the last visits for the day and find a hotel for the final destination of the night. Check these out:

1. The National Museum of Ireland - Archeology has a mesmerizing collection of artifacts from Ireland's history like Viking relics.
2. Kilmainham Gaol is a historic prison with guided tours that'll give you some more insight into Irish history.
3. Temple Bar Inn is a budget-friendly hotel for around €120 per night.
4. Morrison Dublin is a chic hotel near the River Liffey starting at €200 per night.

Tips to make the most out of your time in Dublin

Dublin isn't just about the drinks, here are some more tips for how to make the most of your time in the city:

• Irish is the official language, and it's taught in schools, but it's still less used than English.
• Ireland uses the euro (€) as its currency.
• The city is mostly safe, but you should watch out for pickpockets around bus and train stations.
• Mid-range hotels cost about €100-€150 per night and a mid-range meal about €20-€40 per person.

Our most valuable tip: grab a pint of Guinness or a glass of Irish whiskey (if you're old enough)! When the drinking starts, the last thing you want to think about is your stuff. So, find one of our many Bounce partners around the city, dump your stuff, and unwind like a local!