Discover your ultimate guide to Dublin with kids. From the best activities in the city to top kid friendly restaurants, hotels, attractions, day trips and more! If you’re visiting Dublin for the first time with kids, navigate the city with ease and explore our suggested itineraries, local attractions, cafés, activities and insider tips. From Viking history and wild zoo afternoons to great family friendly restaurants and secret gardens, Dublin has something magical for every member of the family. We’ve packed it all in! Mix the itineraries around to best suit you and dive in to explore Dublin’s charm, history, and energy together with your family!
Where to Stay in Dublin with Kids?
Dublin offers a range of accommodation that meets both convenience and comfort. From high-end to budget hotels with spacious family rooms and kids’ amenities to those offering convenient locations near Dublin’s top attractions, there’s something to suit every budget and travel style.
High-End Family-Friendly Picks
Mid-Range Family-Friendly Picks
Budget Family-Friendly Picks
What to do in Dublin with Kids?
Top 12 List of the Best Dublin Attractions for Curious Kids and Grown Ups! Dublin is bursting with kid-friendly options that satisfy curious children and culture-loving parents. Here’s our Top 10 list of must visit attractions!
4 Day Family Friendly Dublin Itinerary
From Viking history and wild zoo afternoons to great family friendly restaurants and secret gardens, Dublin has something magical for every member of the family. We’ve packed it all in! Mix the itineraries around to best suit you and dive in to explore Dublin’s charm, history, and energy together with your family. Unless you’ve secretly got a cape and superpowers, there’s no need to cram it all into one day, pick what suits your crew and enjoy making the memories that matter!
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
-
St. Stephen’s Green
St. Stephen’s Green is a peaceful city-centre park with a duck pond, swans, and a great playground, perfect for a family breather. -
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. -
National Gallery of Ireland
The National Gallery of Ireland is a great 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. The gallery often runs family tours and drop-in workshops too, so it’s worth checking their What’s On before you go. -
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. -
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. -
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. -
MoLI (Museum of Literature Ireland) and Lunch!
Step into a world where stories come alive for all ages. With hands-on exhibits and a playful approach to storytelling, the museum makes literature an exciting adventure for the whole family. The Commons café at MoLI 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. -
Dinner at Dunne & Crescenzi
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.
Day 2
-
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. A must-stop for curious minds and proud hearts! It’s a fantastic family friendly museum loved by all ages. -
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. -
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. -
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! -
Bike Ride or Playground in Phoenix Park
If you have the energy after exploring the zoo, rent bikes and cycle around the vast Phoenix Park, where you might spot some of the resident deer! Alternatively, stop at the park’s playgrounds near the Visitor Centre for a bit of a run around before heading back to the city. -
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!
Day 3
-
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. -
Dublin Castle and Gardens
Head over to Dublin Castle for a quick look at its historic architecture and beautiful State Apartments. Be sure to visit the Dubhlinn Garden, a lovely green space behind the castle where kids can run around, explore the hedged paths, and see the unique Celtic-inspired designs in the grass. -
The Chester Beatty
Located on the grounds of Dublin Castle, the Chester Beatty museum is a hidden gem for families. The museum houses fascinating artifacts from across Asia, the Middle East, and Europe, with rare manuscripts, prints, and art. Kids will enjoy the museum’s colourful exhibits and interactive workshops, which often include crafts inspired by ancient cultures. -
Lunch at the Silk Road Café (Inside Chester Beatty)
Enjoy a great family friendly lunch at the Silk Road Café. The café has something for everyone, including kid-friendly. The bright, open setting offers a nice break between museum visits. -
Christ Church Cathedral
Visit the nearby Christ Church Cathedral, one of Dublin’s most iconic landmarks. The crypt is Dublin’s oldest structure and now home to a new family dress up area. Families are welcome to try on costumes inspired by the history of the cathedral, in both child and adult sizes! -
St. Patrick’s Cathedral
Take a walk to St. Patrick’s Cathedral, another of Dublin’s most iconic landmarks. This grand Gothic cathedral is a must-see with its stunning stained-glass windows, towering arches, and fascinating history. Kids will enjoy exploring the gardens outside, and the cathedral offers family-friendly guides to keep younger visitors engaged with the stories of Ireland’s past. -
Dinner at Gaillot et Gray
Wrap up the day with a family dinner at Gaillot et Gray, a relaxed and cozy spot best loved for its amazing wood-fired pizzas and super delicious salads
Day 4
-
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. 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! -
Little Museum of Dublin
Dive into Dublin’s modern history at the Little Museum of Dublin. With fun exhibits and engaging guides, kids can learn about the city in a hands on way, with interactive artifacts like old typewriters and early Dublin memorabilia. -
The Ark, A Cultural Centre for Children
The Ark in Temple Bar is a dedicated cultural centre for children. Enjoy interactive, art-focused experience designed just for kids. With changing exhibitions, workshops, and performances, The Ark offers hands-on opportunities for kids to explore art, music, theatre, and storytelling. -
IMMA – Irish Museum of Modern Art and Lunch
IMMA is Ireland’s leading modern art museum. With free admission, IMMA offers a blend of beautiful gardens and interactive exhibits that make art accessible for all ages. Kids can explore the large sculpture garden, run around the grounds, and enjoy creative workshops, making it a fantastic stop for families. Their café is also great and favourite spot of ours for brunch or lunch at the weekend. -
Collins Barracks (National Museum of Ireland – Decorative Arts & History)
Explore Irish history at Collins Barracks with free admission, with its collection of exhibits showcasing everything from military history to decorative arts. The museum offers a variety of hands on displays that make history fun and accessible for kids. They also run tons of brilliant family events throughout the year, check out their upcoming events to see what’s on. -
Dinner at The Woollen Mills
A family-friendly restaurant on the River Liffey. Parents can savour hearty Irish cuisine, while kids can choose from options like burgers and pasta. The views of the Ha’penny Bridge make for a memorable dining experience
Where to Eat in Dublin with Kids?
Find the Best Top 12 Kid Friendly Cafés and Restaurants in Dublin. Whether you’re grabbing brunch after a playground run or heading out for pizza night, these Dublin cafés and restaurants welcome families with open arms. In no particular order, here are 12 of the best spots to eat with kids, each offering good food, relaxed vibes, and something extra for little ones.
What are the Best Family Friendly Day Trips from Dublin?
Looking to venture beyond Dublin city with the kids? You’ve exhausted Dublin Itineraries and are looking to escape the capital, get some fresh air into your lungs and survive a relatively short car journey! There are numerous family-friendly destinations just a short journey away, offering a mix of history, nature, and fun activities. Here are some of our top picks for day trips that are sure to keep the whole family entertained.
1. Howth: Seaside Magic & Seal Spotting
Explore the fishing village of Howth, where you can walk the scenic pier, spot seals lounging in the harbour, and grab fish and chips by the sea. Take the cliff path walk for older kids or enjoy the market and playground for a relaxed day.
How to get there: Take the DART from Dublin city centre to Howth station (approx. 30 mins).
2. Malahide Castle & Gardens: Fairy Trails & Butterfly Bliss
With a magical fairy trail, playground, Butterfly House, and beautiful gardens, this is one of Dublin’s most enchanting day trips. There’s also an Avoca café for lunch and coffee.
How to get there: DART from Dublin city centre to Malahide (approx. 25 mins), then walk 10 minutes to the castle.
3. Killruddery House & Gardens: Nature’s Playground
A dreamy estate with walled gardens, forest trails, farm animals, and a fun natural playground. Great food and family-friendly events make this a go-to spot for a relaxed country day.
How to get there: DART to Bray (approx. 45 mins), then a short taxi or 25-minute walk.
5. Glendalough: Monastic Marvels & Lakeside Picnics
An iconic day trip to the Wicklow Mountains with forest walks, two stunning lakes, and ancient monastic ruins. Perfect for families who love a mix of nature and history.
How to get there: By car (approx. 1 hr 15 mins). Bus tours from Dublin city are also available.
5. Beyond the Trees at Avondale: Treetop Adventures
Soar above the forest canopy on Ireland’s first treetop walk and spiral tower. There’s also a brilliant playground and forest café—kids will love every minute.
How to get there: By car (approx. 1 hr 15 mins from Dublin). Parking available on-site.
6. Powerscourt Estate: Gardens Galore
One of the world’s top gardens, with sweeping views, terraces, waterfalls, and walking trails. There’s a café, shops, and a peaceful vibe that’s perfect for family picnics and strolls.
How to get there: By car (approx. 45 mins) or take the 44 bus to Enniskerry and walk 20 mins to the estate.
7. Irish National Stud & Japanese Gardens: Horses & Harmony
Meet majestic horses, wander the serene Japanese Gardens, and enjoy a fun-filled playground and fairy trail. An excellent mix of culture, animals, and outdoor fun.
How to get there: By car (approx. 50 mins) or take the train to Kildare town, then a short taxi ride.
8. Newgrange & Brú na Bóinne: Ancient Wonders
Step into prehistoric Ireland with a visit to this UNESCO World Heritage Site—older than the pyramids!
How to get there: By car (approx. 50 mins). Entry via Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre only.
9. Emerald Park: Thrills & Animal Encounters
Ireland’s biggest theme park has rollercoasters, water rides, and a zoo. A guaranteed hit with all ages.
How to get there: By car (40 mins) or bus from Dublin City (Route 103x).
10. Belfast: Titanic Tales, W5 Science & City Sights
Explore the Titanic Belfast experience, visit the hands-on science museum W5, and wander a vibrant city.
How to get there: Train from Dublin Connolly to Belfast Lanyon Place (approx. 2 hrs). Family day tours also available.
