How to Plan a Trip to Dublin
The complete 2026 guide — flights, hotels, things to do and airport transfers, all in one place. Everything a first-time visitor to Ireland needs.
Your 4-step Dublin plan
Step 1 — Book flights to DUB
Dublin Airport Airport (DUB) is the main gateway to Dublin. Compare fares across major airlines and OTAs before locking a date.
See flight deals to DUBStep 2 — Pick a neighborhood
Base yourself in Temple Bar + Grafton Street for the best first-time visit — Touristy + iconic.
Where to stay in DublinStep 3 — Plan your itinerary
Start with Trinity College + Book of Kells, then build outward. Most first-time visitors need 3-5 days to see the highlights of Dublin.
Things to do in DublinStep 4 — Sort your airport transfer
Airlink Express bus 747/757 (to Bus Áras / Connolly) is €8 and takes 30 min. Pre-book a private transfer for stress-free arrival.
DUB arrival guideBefore you book — visa check
Ireland is EU but NOT Schengen — most Western passports visa-free up to 90 days. Separate UK visa needed if continuing to UK (Ireland-UK common travel area for citizens only).