Dublin, despite its relatively small size, is one of the most vibrant cities of Europe - it also tends to be one of the more expensive cities. Low air fares are just the start of any journey and travelers tend to be surprised by the prices in Ireland's capital city. With even budget accommodation exceeding some budgets. Traveling on a shoestring seems to be a thing of the past ...
But there are still things to be had for free - or at least for the moderate cost of a day ticket on Dublin Bus. Find out about the best places to visit and things to do if you are visiting Dublin on a budget:
1. Visit the Seals in Howth Harbour
Howth really has it all - bracing cliff walks, spectacular vistas, lots of fresh air, a busy harbor and ... seals. If you want to come eye-to-eye with marine mammals, Howth is the place to go. You can spend anything from an hour to a whole day here. There should be enough to keep you amused.
2. Explore the National Museums of Ireland
Located centrally in Dublin, no less than three National Museums are open free to visitors. And hold some priceless collections to boot. Visit the National Museum in Kildare Street for Prehistoric, Celtic, Viking and Medieval History or the National Museum in Collins Barracks for arts, crafts, numismatics and the military history of Ireland. And don’t forget the unique Natural History Museum, the "Dead Zoo".
3. Stroll Through Phoenix Park
Exploring the whole Phoenix Park could take days, but a few hours walking are enough for most visitors. You can see stately houses (including the residences of the Irish president as well as the US ambassador), Ashtown Castle, wild deer, the Papal Cross, the Magazine Fort ...4. Get Arty at the National Gallery of Ireland
The National Gallery of Ireland at Merrion Square has an eclectic collection, some items being bequeathed by George Bernhard Shaw upon the gallery. Art on display includes "big names" as well as lesser-known artists. The collection is especially strong on Irish art and artists. And you may come eye-to-eye with Ireland's great and famous in the portrait gallery.5. Visit Lesser-Known Churches
While St. Patrick's Cathedral and Christ Church Cathedral do charge an entry fee (outside mass hours), numerous splendid churches are free to visit in Dublin. Including:- St. Mary's Pro-Cathedral, Marlborough Street - hear the Palestrina Choir at mass on Sundays;
- St. Ann's, Dawson Street - loaves of bread are still distributed to the poor;
- Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Whitefriars Street - Carmelite church housing the relics of Saint Valentine;
- University Church, St. Stephen's Green - a Byzantine gem hidden away;
- Our Lady of Lourdes, Sean MacDermott Street - holds the remains of the Blessed Matt Talbot.
