While Dublin is very popular with tourists thanks to its many great and well-known attractions, there are also many underrated tourist attractions in Dublin that many people don’t know about and are well worth a visit.
As the capital of Ireland, Dublin is extremely popular with tourists. As such, it has many great attractions for those who visit.
Everyone is aware of the main attractions, such as the Guinness Storehouse, Grafton Street, Temple Bar, Dublin Castle, Phoenix Park, Dublin Zoo, and Kilmainham Gaol.
However, there are many equally great and underrated tourist attractions to explore and discover that even locals might not know about.
In this article, we will list the top ten most underrated tourist attractions in Dublin you should check out on your next visit to the city.
A Hop-on Hop-off bus tour is a great way to easily get around these tourist attractions in Dublin!
10. The James Joyce Centre – a literature enthusiast’s dream
The James Joyce Centre is a cultural and educational centre and museum that any literature enthusiast should make sure to visit.
This venue contains an exhibit that celebrates the life of the famous Irish writer James Joyce. At the same time, the centre also offers many temporary exhibitions, events, talks, and workshops.
Address: 35 N Great George’s St, Rotunda, Dublin 1, D01 WK44, Ireland
9. The Little Museum of Dublin – learn of Dublin’s history
If you are looking for the perfect rainy day activity, then why not give the Little Museum of Dublin a try?
It is rich in history and home to many interesting artefacts that help trace Dublin’s amazing history.
Address: 15 St Stephen’s Green, Dublin 2, D02 Y066, Ireland
8. The Hungry Tree – an Instagram-worthy attraction
This natural attraction is certainly one of Dublin’s best-hidden gems.
The Hungry Tree consists of a park bench enveloped by a neighbouring tree. Thus, making it a popular place for those looking for the perfect Instagram picture.
Address: King’s Inn Park, Co. Dublin, Ireland
7. St Valentine’s Shrine – a great free attraction and one of Dublin’s secret spots
The St Valentine’s Shrine is an interesting attraction that is said to contain the human remains of St Valentine himself.
The shrine is dedicated to the patron saint of love, and best of all, it’s free of charge to visit!
Address: 56 Aungier St, Dublin 2, D02 YF57, Ireland
6. St Michan’s Mummies – view real mummies in the flesh
The St Michan’s Mummies attraction offers the general public the chance to view real mummies at the 17th century St Michan’s Church in Dublin.
This is a unique attraction that often gets missed by many tourists and locals alike.
Address: Church St, Arran Quay, Dublin 7, Ireland
5. Marsh’s Library – explore a beautiful and historic library
If you are a bookworm, then a visit to Marsh’s Library should certainly be on your bucket list.
Not only is it one of the most visually stunning libraries in the country, but it also has the honour of being the first-ever public library in Ireland and dates back to 1701.
If you want to see more books, pay a visit to Trinity College Dublin, which was first opened in the 19th century. Here, you can visit the Long Room, the famous Trinity College Library.
Address: St Patrick’s Close, Dublin 8, Ireland
4. Sweny’s Pharmacy – one of Dublin’s best-kept secrets for Ulysses fans
This former pharmacy was featured in the famous James Joyce text Ulysses and today still stands as a small-scale attraction for fans.
Today, it sells crafts, second-hand books, and various bric-a-brac.
Address: 1 Lincoln Pl, Dublin 2, D02 VP65, Ireland
3. Hacienda – one of the best underground bars in the city
This bar is off-the-beaten-track as it is located in Smithfield on Dublin city’s Northside.
It is an underground bar with a speakeasy-style and can only be accessed by knocking on a door before being granted access.
Hacienda is certainly a unique bar and one of Dublin’s secret spots that is worth experiencing.
Address: 44 Arran St E, Smithfield, Dublin 7, D07 AK73, Ireland
2. Freemason’s Hall – the home of a secretive organisation
The Freemason’s Hall is certainly one of the most underrated tourist attractions in Dublin, as many locals are even unaware of its existence!
The Freemasons are one of the world’s most secretive organisations. So, it’s all the more of a treat that they offer tours of the historic building during the summer months.
Make sure to book in advance!
Address: Freemasons’ Hall, 17-19 Molesworth St, Dublin 2, D02 HK50
1. Iveagh Gardens – one of the most underrated tourist attractions in Dublin
In first place on our list of most underrated tourist attractions in Dublin is the Iveagh Gardens, which are hidden from sight behind both 19th-century Georgian buildings and the renowned National Concert Hall.
The Iveagh Gardens are a stunning park that most people tragically overlook. Do yourself a favour and make sure you check it out. You won’t be disappointed!
Address: Clonmel St, Saint Kevin’s, Dublin 2, D02 WD63
And so, these are the top ten most underrated tourist attractions in Dublin City. Have you been to any of them already?
Other notable mentions
Leeson Street Doors: Leeson Street links St Stephen’s Green to the Grand Canal in Dublin City Centre. Taking a walk along Leeson Street, you can snap some pictures of the colourful doors along the way.
The homes of Oscar Wilde and Bram Stoker: Located just off Grafton Street, you can visit the former homes of some of the best Irish authors of all time.
Dublin Bay: Escape the city and head to the coast to soak up the salty sea air of Dublin Bay. The views around here are magical!
Christ Church Cathedral: Christ Church Cathedral is a relatively well-known attraction in the city. However, it may fly under the radar of some in favour of some of the city’s more famous attractions.
FAQs about underrated tourist attractions in Dublin
What is the #1 attraction in Dublin, Ireland?
The Guinness Storehouse is the most popular tourist attraction in Dublin City Centre.
Why are tourists attracted to Dublin?
Tourists are attracted to Dublin for many reasons. From the city’s historic charm to its modern feel, there is so much to offer. Many tourists come to visit top attractions, such as Dublin Castle, Temple Bar, Phoenix Park, Kilmainham Gaol, and many more.
How do I spend a day in Dublin?
Check out our guide on how to spend 24 hours in Dublin here.
