48 Hours in Dublin with Kids: The Ultimate Family-Friendly Itinerary
Planning a weekend getaway to Dublin with little ones in tow? Whether you’re visiting for the first time or rediscovering the city through fresh eyes, Dublin is packed with kid-friendly adventures, great cafés, green spaces, and cultural gems perfect for curious minds (and tired legs!). In just 48 hours, you can soak up the charm of our vibrant city while keeping everyone entertained and happy. From interactive museums to scenic walks and hidden gems, here’s how to make the most of two fun filled days in Dublin with kids.
If you’re planning to explore several of Dublin’s top family attractions, the Dublin City Pass is a handy all-in-one ticket to consider. With this pass you get unlimited access to over 40 attractions — everything from EPIC and Dublin Zoo to St. Patrick’s Cathedral and more.
Day 1
1. Breakfast at Brother Hubbard (North or South)
Start your day with breakfast at Brother Hubbard North or South, depending on your location. This café offers great food, from hearty pancakes to fresh pastries and eggs on sourdough toast, it’s a fun start to your family’s Dublin adventure!
2. St. Stephen’s Green
St. Stephen’s Green is our gorgeous city centre park and the perfect spot for little legs to run wild. Wander around the duck pond, say hello to the swans, and let the kids burn off some energy at the playground. It’s a calm, leafy escape right in the heart of the city, ideal for a breather before the rest of the day’s adventures.
3. National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology
Introduce the kids to Ireland’s fascinating history with a visit to the National Museum of Ireland on Kildare Street. Entry is free, and there are plenty of hands-on exhibits and interactive displays. Kids will love exploring the famous “bog bodies,” ancient artifacts, and Viking displays that make Irish history come to lif
4. National Gallery of Ireland
Just a short walk away, the National Gallery of Ireland is a lovely spot to pop into with the kids and even better, it’s Free Admission. They’ve got brilliant family friendly bits like art packs to keep little hands busy, and there’s a great Creative Corner where younger kids can sit and draw. Have a wander through the galleries and see what catches their eye, from big bold paintings to quirky sculptures. The gallery often runs family tours and drop-in workshops too, so it’s worth checking their What’s On before you go.
5. Lunch at The National Gallery of Ireland
A total hidden gem for a family lunch in the city centre! The airy, light-filled café at the National Gallery is super welcoming and ideal lunch with the kids. Think fresh salads, hearty soups, sandwiches and really pastries, plenty to keep everyone happy (and fed!) before heading back out to explore.
6. Merrion Square Playground
Merrion Square Playground is another great find right in the heart of the city. With its brilliant wooden play structures, slides, swings, and climbing ropes, it’s sure to keep the little ones entertained. Set within the leafy Merrion Square Park, home to the famous Oscar Wilde sculpture, it’s a great spot to run around, have a picnic on the grass, and soak up some culture before heading to your next stop.
7. Viking Splash Tour
For a fun and unique tour of the city, hop on the Viking Splash Tour. This amphibious vehicle takes families through Dublin’s streets and canals, with guides dressed as Vikings, adding plenty of humour and historical anecdotes. The tour is great fun for kids and offers a quirky way to learn about Dublin’s history! Book in advance as tickets sell out.
8. MoLI (Museum of Literature Ireland) and Lunch!
Step into a world where stories come alive for all ages. At MoLI, children can listen to captivating tales, get creative in their dedicated kids room, and even craft their own poems. With hands-on exhibits and a playful approach to storytelling, the museum makes literature an exciting adventure for the whole family.The MoLI café is super kid friendly and a hidden gem in the middle of the city. There’s a little secret entrance to the magical Iveagh gardens that is definitely worth an explore.
8. Dinner at Dunne & Crescenzi
Wrap up your day with an Italian feast at Dunne & Crescenzi on Frederick Street. This family-friendly restaurant is a perfect for kids whol will love the pasta and pizza options, and adults can enjoy classic Italian specialties, from risottos to fresh salads.
Optional Evening Treat! Finish your adventure with a stop at Murphy’s Ice Cream, where kids can try fun Irish-inspired flavours like Irish coffee, caramelised brown bread, or Dingle sea salt. Yum!
Day 2
1. Tang Café
Tang Café a great spot serving nutritious and flavourful dishes. Located at 23C Dawson Street, it’s just a short walk from St. Stephen’s Green, making it a perfect stop before heading out for the day. Their menu offers a variety of options, including shakshuka, avocado eggs, and buckwheat pancakes, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Yum!
2. Explore Trinity College and the Book of Kells
Head to Trinity College for a quick walk through its beautiful grounds. The highlight here is the Book of Kells exhibit, a vividly illustrated medieval manuscript that tells Ireland’s ancient story. Older kids will enjoy the history, while younger ones will be fascinated by the Long Room Library’s towering bookshelves. Make sure to book tickets in advance! Even if you don’t visit the Book of Kells, a walk through Trinity is worth the trip alone!
3. EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum
Step into the story of Ireland’s global journey at EPIC, an award-winning interactive museum. EPIC brings history to life with touchscreens, motion sensors, and immersive exhibits that captivate kids and grown-ups alike. Discover how Irish emigrants shaped the world, from music and sport to politics and science. A must-stop for curious minds and proud hearts! Kids can stamp their “passports” as they learn about the global Irish diaspora, making history come to life. It’s a fantastic family friendly museum loved by all ages.
4. Jeanie Johnston Tall Ship
Right beside EPIC, step aboard the Jeanie Johnston Tall Ship and sail back in time! Moored on the Liffey, this full-scale replica of a 19th-century famine ship offers a powerful and moving glimpse into Irish emigration history. Fascinating for older kids and grown-ups alike, it’s a hands-on history lesson that brings Dublin’s past to life.
4. Lunch at Herbstreet in Grand Canal Dock
Located in the vibrant Grand Canal Dock area, Herbstreet is a great spot for a family-friendly lunch. With options like pancakes, salads, sandwiches, and hearty burgers there’s something for everyone, a bonus is the scenic setting by the water!
6. Dublin Zoo at Phoenix Park
One of the oldest zoos in Europe, Dublin Zoo in the beautiful Phoenix Park, has an impressive collection of animals and conservation projects. Kids will love seeing lions, giraffes, and elephants up close, and there are plenty of spots to relax with a snack or drink. Pop to the Meerkat Cafe for some lunch if you haven’t grabbed any, and sit beside the adorable little meerkats!
Dublinia: Viking and Medieval Dublin
Step back in time at Dublinia, an interactive museum where kids can learn about Viking and medieval Dublin. Perfect for curious kids and history-loving grown-ups, Dublinia brings Viking and Medieval Dublin to life with hands-on exhibits, interactive displays, and even a chance to try on a Viking helmet. Climb the medieval tower for epic city views and let little imaginations run wild—history has never been this fun!
8. Dinner at Krewe
End your day with dinner at Krewe North or South, a New Orleans-inspired restaurant. Krewe offers a lively, family-friendly atmosphere and a menu that combines Cajun and Creole flavours with Irish ingredients! Kids will love the mac and cheese!
