While Dublin, Ireland, is well known for its cloudy and rainy days, a sunny weekend afternoon is an exciting event that any residents or visitors should take advantage of. Some of Dublin’s most captivating views and activities can be found outside. Here are some of the best ways to spend a sunny afternoon in Dublin.
For any book lovers in need of something new, the Temple Bar area of South Dublin hosts an open-air book market every Saturday and Sunday from 11am-6pm. The Temple Bar Book Market offers new, rare, and second-hand books for adults and children of all ages. While Temple Bar is known primarily for its exciting nightlife, during the day the neighbourhood is charming and peaceful, making the book market a perfect outing for families and friends alike.
Picnic in St. Stephen's Green
Park
Located conveniently at the end of Grafton Street, St Stephen’s Green is a beautiful, lush outdoor park guaranteed to brighten up anyone’s week. With all of Ireland’s infamous rain, St. Stephen’s Green has captivating green spaces all year with flowers always in bloom. While many people bring their children to feed the birds overlooking St. Stephen’s Green’s picturesque ponds, the benches and the grass make for excellent picnic spots on a warm day.
Looking to get out of the city? Take the DART commuter train from Connolly Station towards Howth, a pleasant village on the coast of Dublin. There are plenty of activities, shopping, and restaurants in the area, complete with an open market during the warmer months. In addition, the Howth Cliff Walk overlooking Dublin bay makes for a lovely and leisurely stroll along the scenic cliffs, eventually leading towards Baily Lighthouse. For anyone spending some time in Dublin, Howth is not to be missed.
Tour the National Botanic Gardens
Just outside the city centre, Dublin’s Botanic Gardens are a calming and serene escape from the bustle of the city. The Botanic Gardens, located in Glasnevin, are also home to National Herbarium and several historic wrought iron glass greenhouses. With many multiple weekly events and exhibitions, the Botanic Gardens are a free and enriching place to spend a sunny day. Throughout April, the Botanic Gardens host daily walks through the grounds, which are free of charge on Sundays.
Historic Croke Park hosts some of Europe’s most fast paced and exciting sporting matches. With games such as hurling and Gaelic Football, the atmosphere of a match at Croke Park is unparalleled in its excitement and its energy. With prices as low as ten euros for a ticket, a chance to see your local team play an intense sport is fun for the whole family.
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Glasnevin Cemetery Museum
Cemetery, Museum
The world’s first cemetery and museum, Glasnevin is the final resting place of many legendary historical Irish figures, including Daniel O’Connell. Visitors can take tours with knowledgeable guides and learn about the history and larger-than-life experiences of some of the one million people who are buried there. Ticket prices for the museum and walking tour are as low as €7.20, while entrance to the museum is only four euros.
Venture along North Dublin to Phoenix Park, the largest park in Northern Europe. Not only are the views captivating, with flowers in bloom throughout the year, the park is also home to many friendly wild deer. Locals and tourists alike flock to Phoenix Park in order to admire the deer, making it a great stop on a sunny day in Dublin. Phoenix Park is also the residence of the president of Ireland, Michael D. Higgins, and also houses the famous Dublin Zoo.
With its stunning natural landscapes, cities packed with charm and a fascinating unique culture, Ireland is a country that has been winning over tourists for centuries. Book one of these trips or tours to ensure your visit is as memorable as it can be.
Mary Sheehan is an undergraduate studying literature and creative writing at Elon University, but is currently living in Dublin, Ireland. Mary aspires to be a travel writer, and enjoys reading, adventuring, and making friends worldwide.
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