By exploring any of Dublin’s hidden gems, you will have the opportunity to experience something that many tourists tend to miss.
It goes without saying that as the capital of Ireland, Dublin has many great attractions to offer any tourist lucky enough to visit it.
However, while everyone is familiar with the Guinness Storehouse, Dublin Zoo, Phoenix Park, and Kilmainham Gaol, there are also many brilliant, equally exciting attractions to see that often criminally go overlooked.
This article will list what we believe to be the best of Dublin’s hidden gems.
10. The Jeanie Johnston Tall Ship – an insightful look into a harrowing journey
While most people are familiar with the Famine Museum, the Jeanie Johnston Tall Ship often goes overlooked, which is quite a shame as it has so much to offer visitors.
This replica of the original ship that made 16 transatlantic voyages during the Great Famine provides visitors with a truly insightful look into the harrowing journey that emigrants experienced during those tragic times.
Address: Custom House Quay, North Dock, Dublin 1, D01 KF84
9. The Oscar Wilde Statue – a tribute to one of Ireland’s literary greats
Oscar Wilde is undoubtedly one of Ireland’s literary greats, and for those who want to take a moment to pay their respects and admire the man, a visit to his statue on the corner of Merrion Square Park is a must.
The statue not only manages to capture his colourful character but also his cheeky smile. The statue is accompanied by two others: one of his wife and one of Dionysus, the Greek god of wine.
Address: Merrion Square Park, Dublin
8. The Séamus Ennis Arts Centre – a great way to experience traditional Irish arts and culture
Visiting the Séamus Ennis Arts Centre is a great way to experience traditional Irish arts and culture, as it hosts various dance and music performances and many exhibitions and workshops to promote traditional Irish heritage.
If you’re feeling peckish while there, why not visit the café to experience a hearty home-cooked Irish meal?
Address: Main St, Naul, Naul Village, Co. Dublin, K32 AY27
7. Iveagh Gardens – a peaceful retreat from city life
While living in the city can be pretty hectic at times, the Iveagh Gardens offers people the opportunity to experience a peaceful retreat from city life in beautiful surroundings.
As buildings on all sides surround it, the Iveagh Gardens truly is a hidden gem you have to look for, but those who do will be pleasantly surprised with what they find.
Address: St Stephen’s Green, Park, Dublin 2, D02 HX65
6. Experience Gaelic Games – learn about Ireland’s national sports
Ireland can proudly claim to have three national sports: Gaelic football, hurling, and Gaelic handball. While Irish people love these sports, many people outside of Ireland are unfamiliar with them.
For those wishing to learn about Ireland’s sports, a visit to Experience Gaelic Games has to be on the cards. The venue is home to excellent facilities, and all their trainers are professionally certified and happy to teach you how to play these three great sports.
Address: C/o Na Fianna CLG, Mobhi Road, Glasnevin, Dublin 9
5. Glasnevin Cemetery – Ireland’s largest cemetery
Glasnevin Cemetery is Ireland’s largest cemetery and is said to be the resting place of approximately 1.5 million people, including many very influential figures from Ireland’s past.
On the grounds of the cemetery, there is a museum in which you will have the opportunity to learn everything there is to know about the forefathers of Ireland who are all buried there.
Address: Finglas Rd, Glasnevin, Dublin, D11 XA32
4. Howth Head Peak – a great spot to marvel at the Irish Sea
Howth Head Peak is a rocky peninsula located northeast of Dublin. It offers visitors a fantastic opportunity to take a moment to marvel at the majestic beauty of the Irish Sea.
There are also several great nature trails full of wildlife and many flora and fauna for nature lovers to admire. There are many great spots to stop along the way for a picnic too!
Address: Howth, Dublin
3. Marsh’s Library – Ireland’s first public library
Located behind the famous St Patrick’s Cathedral, Marsh’s Library is Ireland’s first-ever public library, opening in 1707. Whether you’re an avid bookworm or just looking for peace from the city, visiting Marsh’s Library is a great thing to have on your itinerary.
With a stunning interior and over 25,000 books from the 16th to 18th centuries, you can practically feel the ancient atmosphere emanating from this beautiful library along with the smell of old books.
Address: St Patrick’s Close, Dublin 8, D08 FK79
2. Drimnagh Castle – Ireland’s only castle with a full moat
Drimnagh Castle is famous for being Ireland’s only castle with a full moat and was said to have been built by the Normans during the 13th century.
The castle is well worth visiting for those who wish to immerse themselves in Irish history. The tour guides offer brilliant and informative tours that make the experience unique.
Address: Restoration Project, Long Mile Rd, Drimnagh, Dublin 12
1. The National Leprechaun Museum – a museum based on Irish folklore and mythology
In first place on our list of what we believe to be the best of Dublin’s hidden gems is the National Leprechaun Museum, which is based on Irish folklore and mythology covering everything from fairies to leprechauns.
The museum has excellent activities and interactive displays for adults and kids alike to enjoy. The tour guides are super enthusiastic about what they do and always go the extra mile to ensure that kids especially have a time to remember.
Address: 2-3, Mary’s Abbey, North City, Dublin, D07 X6R6
That concludes our article on what we believe to be the best of Dublin’s hidden gems. Are there other great off-the-beaten-path attractions that you think deserve a place on our list?
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