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Itineraries
Welcome to the Itineraries page on Dublin City Mum! Here, you’ll find curated guides that make exploring Dublin with kids easy, fun, and full of memorable moments. Whether you're planning a day trip or an extended stay, my itineraries are packed with ideas for all ages. From outdoor adventures, and museums, to family-friendly dining and hidden gems.
My one, two, three, four, and five day itineraries for exploring Dublin with Kids are designed to balance Dublin’s iconic landmarks with spots loved by local families, each itinerary offers a thoughtful blend of discovery, adventure, play, and eating, making it easy to experience the very best of the city. I'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!
If you've exhausted what Dublin has to offer and fancy heading out of the city for a few hours and getting some fresh air into your lungs, check out my Day Trips!
One Day Itinerary for Exploring Dublin with Kids
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 something for everyone, from hearty pancakes to fresh pastries and eggs on sourdough toast. Their kid-friendly options and colorful dishes make it a fun start to your family’s Dublin adventure.
2. St. Stephen’s Green
Walk to St. Stephen’s Green, our beautiful city park with plenty of space for kids to run around. Families can enjoy a leisurely stroll around the pond, feed the ducks, and play in the park’s playground area. It's a peaceful spot to relax before diving into the day's activities!
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 life.
4. National Gallery of Ireland
Just a short walk away, the National Gallery of Ireland offers free admission and a variety of family-friendly resources, including art packs for children. Take a stroll through the gallery, where kids can spot famous artworks and participate in fun art activities.
5. Lunch at The National Gallery of Ireland
The light-filled, welcoming spot is perfect for a relaxed lunch. With a menu featuring fresh salads, sandwiches, soups, and a selection of delicious pastries, there's something for everyone—even the pickiest eaters. Highchairs are available, making it a convenient stop for families with young children, and the café's cozy atmosphere provides a nice break after exploring the gallery’s exhibits.
6. Merrion Square Playground and Oscar Wilde Statue
Head over to Merrion Square, where kids can play in the park’s excellent playground while parents admire the famous Oscar Wilde statue and other sculptures around the square.
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 humor and historical anecdotes. The tour is exciting for kids and offers a quirky way to learn about Dublin’s history.
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 place to unwind after a busy day. Kids will love the pasta and pizza options, and adults can enjoy classic Italian specialties, from risottos to fresh salads. It’s a delightful way to end your day in Dublin!
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!
For alternative dining options visit EAT!
Two Day Itinerary for Exploring Dublin with Kids
Day 2
1. Breakfast at Queen of Tarts (Il Valentino)
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Queen of Tarts on Cow's Lane, off Dame Street. Known for its cozy atmosphere and beautiful pastries, this charming café offers a selection of freshly baked scones, quiches, pancakes, and of course, their famous tarts. Kids will love the sweet treats, while parents can enjoy a coffee and a hearty start to the day.
2. Explore Trinity College and the Book of Kells
After breakfast, 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 may 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
Head to EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, where you’ll discover Ireland’s history through interactive exhibits and digital displays. Kids can stamp their “passports” as they learn about the global Irish diaspora, making history come to life in a fun way.
4. Jeanie Johnston Tall Ship
Right near EPIC, take a tour of the Jeanie Johnston Tall Ship. Kids will love hearing stories of Ireland’s emigrants and exploring this replica of a historic famine ship.
4. Lunch at Herbstreet in Grand Canal Dock
Head over to Herbstreet, located in the vibrant Grand Canal Dock area, for a family-friendly lunch. Herbstreet is known for its fresh, locally sourced ingredients and great atmosphere. The menu offers something for everyone, with options like pancakes, salads, sandwiches, and hearty burgers. Kids will love the relaxed, scenic setting by the water, and there are plenty of kid-friendly options available.
6. Dublin Zoo at Phoenix Park
After lunch, head to Dublin Zoo in the beautiful Phoenix Park. One of the oldest zoos in Europe, it 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.
7. Bike Ride or Playground in Phoenix Park
After exploring the zoo, rent bikes and cycle around the vast Phoenix Park, where you might spot some of the resident deer. Alternatively, stop by one of the park's playgrounds for a bit of fun before heading back to the city.
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 flavors with Irish ingredients. Kids and parents alike will enjoy the bold, comforting flavours. The welcoming vibe and unique dishes make Krewe an exciting place to dine!
Three Day Itinerary for Exploring Dublin with Kids
Day 3
1. Breakfast at Avoca Café on Suffolk Street
Start your day with breakfast at Avoca Café, a charming spot known for its pastries, hearty breakfast options, and coffee. Kids can enjoy freshly baked treats before diving into another day of exploration.
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.
3. MoLI (Museum of Literature Ireland) and Lunch!
Next, visit MoLI, Dublin’s interactive Museum of Literature. With exhibits that engage all ages, kids can enjoy listening to stories, exploring the beautiful gardens, and even creating their own poetry. The museum’s creative approach makes literature fun for the whole family. The MoLI cafe 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.
5. Dublinia: Viking and Medieval Dublin
Step back in time at Dublinia, an interactive museum where kids can learn about Viking and medieval Dublin. From dressing up as Vikings to walking through a medieval street, this museum is packed with hands-on experiences that bring history to life.
6. Christ Church Cathedral
Next, visit the nearby Christ Church Cathedral, one of Dublin’s most iconic landmarks. The cathedral’s medieval crypt is fascinating for families to explore, and kids will love discovering the ancient architecture and mysterious artifacts housed here.
7. 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. It's lively, laid-back family and dog friendly vibe make it the perfect place for unwinding after a busy day of exploring.
Four Day Itinerary for Exploring Dublin with Kids
Day 4
1. Breakfast at The Fumbally
Start your day with breakfast at The Fumbally, a relaxed and vibrant café loved for its fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and family-friendly atmosphere. Located in Dublin 8, The Fumbally offers wholesome options like scrambled eggs on sourdough, pancakes, and fresh pastries that are great for all ages. The warm, open space with quirky decor makes it a memorable start to the day.
2. Dublin Castle and Gardens
After breakfast, 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.
3. The Chester Beatty
Located on the castle grounds, 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 colorful exhibits and interactive workshops, which often include crafts inspired by ancient cultures.
4. Lunch at the Silk Road Café (Inside Chester Beatty)
Enjoy a great family-friendly lunch at the Silk Road Café, located within the Chester Beatty. With dishes inspired by Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine, the café has something for everyone, including kid-friendly options like hummus, fresh salads, and baked goods. The bright, open setting offers a nice break between museum visits.
5. St. Patrick’s Cathedral
After lunch take a walk to St. Patrick’s Cathedral, one of Dublin’s most iconic landmarks. This grand Gothic cathedral, founded in 1191, is a must-see with its stunning stained-glass windows, towering arches, and fascinating history. Kids will enjoy exploring the beautiful gardens outside, and the cathedral offers family-friendly guides to keep younger visitors engaged with the stories of Ireland’s past.
6. The Ark, A Cultural Centre for Children
Head to The Ark in Temple Bar for an 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, theater, and storytelling.
8. Dinner at The Woollen Mills
End the end of your day with dinner at The Woollen Mills, a family-friendly restaurant on the River Liffey. Known for its relaxed vibe and delicious Irish-inspired menu, it offers a variety of dishes that both kids and adults will enjoy. 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!
For alternative dining options visit EAT!
Five Day Itinerary for Exploring Dublin with Kids
Day 5
1. Breakfast at Carluccio’s on Dawson Street
Start your Dublin adventure with breakfast at Carluccio’s, a family-friendly Italian restaurant known for its delicious pastries, classic breakfast options, and warm ambiance. With options like croissants, scrambled eggs, and pancakes, it’s a relaxed way to fuel up before exploring the city.
Introduce the kids to Irish mythology with a fun visit to the National Leprechaun Museum. Through storytelling and interactive exhibits, learn about Irish folklore, fairies, and, of course, leprechauns. This immersive experience is perfect for young imaginations.
3. IMMA – Irish Museum of Modern Art and Lunch
Take a short taxi or bus ride to IMMA, Ireland’s leading modern art museum. Housed in the historic Royal Hospital Kilmainham, 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 cafe is also great and favourite spot of ours for brunch or lunch at the weekend.
2. Collins Barracks (National Museum of Ireland – Decorative Arts & History)
Explore Irish history at Collins Barracks, which has a 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.
Wrap up your day with a family dinner at Pi Pizza, a cozy, lively spot known for its Neapolitan-style wood-fired pizzas. The laid-back atmosphere and perfectly crafted pizzas make it a hit with both kids and adults—a great way to end your day of exploring Dublin!