$10 back on your first eligible booking — in the RatedOtels app only. Get the app Terms
BOOK
With the family

3 Days in Dublin — Family with Kids

family dublin city-break ireland history
Length
3 days
Stops
13
3 Days in Dublin — Family with Kids
Destination
Dates
Guests 1 room, 1 adults, 0 children
SEARCH

What this plan covers

This 3-day itinerary is crafted for families with children, blending historical exploration with interactive museums, animal encounters, and plenty of green spaces. It promises an engaging and memorable trip to Ireland's vibrant capital, ensuring smiles for both kids and adults.

Culture 4 Food 2 Activity 5 Nature 2

Opening hours, prices and routes can change, so check the details before you set off.

Day 1 5 stops · about 7.5 hrs
1

Dublin Castle

Culture 2 hours

Kids can explore the historic castle grounds, imagine royal life, and enjoy the open space, while older children might appreciate the State Apartments and Chester Beatty Library.

Good to know

Focus on the outdoor areas and the free Chester Beatty Library for younger kids; consider a guided tour for older children to delve into history.

2

Chester Beatty Library

Culture 1.5 hours

Discover fascinating artifacts from around the world, with engaging exhibits that spark curiosity and wonder in all ages, from ancient manuscripts to beautiful art.

Good to know

Free entry; located within Dublin Castle grounds; check for family workshops or storytelling events that might be running.

3

The Brazen Head

Food 1 hour

Experience Ireland's oldest pub in a family-friendly setting, enjoying traditional fare in a historic atmosphere that feels like stepping back in time.

Good to know

Arrive early for lunch to secure a table, especially with a family; high chairs are often available, and outdoor seating is an option.

4

Dublinia

Activity 2 hours

Step back in time to Viking and Medieval Dublin with interactive exhibits, dress-up opportunities, and engaging displays perfect for inquisitive young minds.

Good to know

Located next to Christ Church Cathedral; allow ample time for exploration and interaction with all the hands-on exhibits.

5

Christ Church Cathedral

Culture 1 hour

Marvel at the stunning architecture and rich history of one of Dublin's oldest buildings, with a fascinating crypt that often captivates children.

Good to know

Check for family-friendly guided tours or self-guided activity sheets upon arrival to enhance the visit for kids.

Day 2 4 stops · about 7.8 hrs
6

Dublin Zoo

Activity Half day

Spend a joyful day encountering a diverse array of animals from around the globe in one of the world's oldest and most popular zoos, located in the vast Phoenix Park.

Good to know

Book tickets online in advance to save time and ensure entry; wear comfortable shoes for extensive walking, and bring snacks or a picnic.

7

Phoenix Park

Nature 1.5 hours

Enjoy the vast open spaces, spot wild deer roaming freely, and let kids run free in one of Europe's largest enclosed urban parks, perfect for burning off energy.

Good to know

Rent bikes near the entrance or bring a picnic to enjoy the natural surroundings after your zoo visit; the Visitor Centre offers more information.

8

National Museum of Ireland - Natural History ('The Dead Zoo')

Culture 1.5 hours

Be amazed by the impressive collection of taxidermied animals, skeletons, and geological exhibits that captivate children's imaginations with creatures from land and sea.

Good to know

Free entry; located centrally, making it easy to access via public transport; suitable for all ages, but especially fascinating for curious young minds.

9

Butler's Chocolate Cafe

Food 45 minutes

Indulge in delicious hot chocolates, milkshakes, and sweet treats, a perfect reward and energy boost after a day of exploration and learning.

Good to know

Multiple locations across the city; enjoy a complimentary chocolate with every hot drink purchased; a great spot for a family treat.

Day 3 4 stops · about 6 hrs
10

EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum

Activity 2.5 hours

Engage with interactive exhibits and personal stories that bring Ireland's emigration history to life in a way that's both educational and entertaining for all ages.

Good to know

Book tickets online; located in the Docklands, accessible by Luas (tram); allow plenty of time to explore all the digital galleries.

11

Jeanie Johnston Tall Ship

Activity 1 hour

Step aboard a replica 19th-century famine ship and gain a poignant insight into Ireland's past through an immersive guided tour, a truly unique historical experience.

Good to know

Tours run regularly; check schedules upon arrival or book ahead, especially during peak season, as space can be limited.

12

Viking Splash Tour

Activity 1.5 hours

Embark on an exhilarating land and water tour of Dublin aboard an amphibious vehicle, providing a fun, loud, and unique perspective on the city's history and landmarks.

Good to know

Book well in advance, especially for weekends or holidays, as tours fill up quickly; dress for the weather as part of the tour is on water.

13

St Stephen's Green

Nature 1 hour

Relax in this beautiful Victorian park, enjoy the playground, feed the ducks, and unwind in a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city, perfect for a final family stroll.

Good to know

Free entry; perfect for a late afternoon stroll or a break from sightseeing; look for the Yeats memorial and the playground area.

Where to stay

Hotels in Dublin

Book direct on our own Dublin hotel pages — no booking fee and instant confirmation.

Things to book

Tours and activities in Dublin

Guided tours, day trips and tickets to book alongside your stay.

Keep planning

More Dublin itineraries

Other ways to spend a few days in Dublin, from our own travel research.

Back to the Dublin guide
Take RatedOtels with you
Cashback on eligible app bookings only, credited after check-out. Terms
$10 back on your 1st app booking
App bookings only · Terms
Get app