Dun Laoghaire: A Coastal Gem of Dublin
Discover the vibrant coastal town of Dun Laoghaire, where stunning views, rich history, and a lively cultural scene await every visitor.
Nestled along the stunning Dublin Bay, Dun Laoghaire is a picturesque coastal town that offers visitors a delightful mix of scenic views, vibrant culture, and rich history. Whether you're strolling along the waterfront or exploring charming local shops, Dun Laoghaire is a must-visit destination for tourists seeking a taste of Ireland's coastal charm.
A brief summary to Dún Laoghaire
- Dublin, Dún Laoghaire, IE
Local tips
- Visit the East Pier at sunset for breathtaking views and photo opportunities.
- Try some freshly caught seafood at one of the local restaurants along the waterfront.
- Check out the local events calendar for festivals and markets happening during your visit.
- Explore the charming boutiques and shops on George's Street for unique souvenirs.
- Take a ferry ride to Dalkey Island for a memorable excursion and stunning views of the coastline.
Getting There
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DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transit)
To get to Dún Laoghaire from the city center, head to the nearest DART station, which is usually Tara Street or Pearse Station. Purchase a ticket to Dún Laoghaire. Board the train heading southbound (towards Bray or Greystones). The journey takes about 30 minutes. Once you arrive at Dún Laoghaire station, exit the station, and you'll find yourself just a short walk from the waterfront and various attractions in the area.
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Bus
From the city center, find a bus stop for Dublin Bus routes that go to Dún Laoghaire. You can take routes 7, 45A, or 75. Make sure to check the bus schedule for the next departure. The bus journey takes approximately 40-50 minutes, depending on traffic. Once you arrive at the Dún Laoghaire terminus or a stop in the town, you can walk to the waterfront or explore local shops and cafes.
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Walking
If you're feeling adventurous and are staying relatively close, consider walking to Dún Laoghaire. From Dublin city center, you can walk toward the south along the River Liffey, following the signage to the coastline. The total distance is around 12 kilometers, which would take about 2.5 to 3 hours. Enjoy the scenic route along the River and look out for parks and local sites along the way.
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Cycle
Another option is to rent a bicycle from one of Dublin's bike-sharing schemes, such as Dublinbikes. Head towards the south along the River Liffey and follow the designated bike lanes. The ride to Dún Laoghaire is around 12 kilometers and should take about 30-40 minutes depending on your pace. Once you arrive, you can park your bike and explore the area at your leisure.
Discover more about Dún Laoghaire
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Dalkey Castle & Heritage Centre
3.1 km
Discover the historic charm of Dalkey Castle & Heritage Centre, where Ireland's rich past meets stunning views of Dublin Bay in a captivating experience.
Killiney
4.5 km
Explore the stunning coastal views, rich culture, and serene beaches of Killiney, Dublin's hidden seaside paradise.
Dalkey Island
4.7 km
Explore Dalkey Island, a stunning Irish treasure with breathtaking views, rich history, and diverse wildlife just off the Dublin coast.
Dublin Bay
4.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich maritime history of Dublin Bay, a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility on Ireland's eastern coast.
Poolbeg Lighthouse
5.3 km
Discover the historic Poolbeg Lighthouse, a stunning landmark on Dublin Bay, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into the city's maritime history.
Great South Wall
5.7 km
Explore the Great South Wall in Dublin for stunning coastal views, rich maritime history, and a tranquil escape amidst nature's beauty.
Bull Wall
7.3 km
Experience the serene beauty of Bull Wall, a picturesque bridge over the River Tolka, perfect for nature lovers and a peaceful retreat in Dublin.
Tom Clarke Bridge
8.0 km
Explore Dublin's Tom Clarke Bridge: a modern marvel uniting the city's rich history with contemporary design, offering breathtaking views and vibrant culture.
Ballycorus Lead Mines
8.0 km
Discover the rich industrial history of Ballycorus Lead Mines in Co. Dublin, where stunning landscapes meet fascinating heritage.
Patrick Kavanagh Statue (1991) by John Coll
8.2 km
Explore the Patrick Kavanagh Statue in Dublin's Grand Canal Dock, where literature meets artistry in a beautiful urban setting.
Irish Architectural Archive
8.5 km
Explore Ireland's architectural legacy at the Irish Architectural Archive, a cultural center dedicated to preserving and showcasing the nation's rich architectural history.
4 Merrion Square S
8.5 km
Discover the serene beauty and rich history of Merrion Square, a stunning Georgian park in the heart of Dublin, perfect for relaxation and cultural exploration.
Sir John Rogerson's Quay
8.5 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and rich history of Sir John Rogerson's Quay, a must-visit riverside destination in Dublin, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Diving Bell
8.5 km
Explore Dublin's Diving Bell at Grand Canal Dock, a unique historical landmark showcasing the city's maritime heritage and scenic beauty.
N Wall Quay
8.6 km
Experience the lively waterfront of N Wall Quay in Dublin, where modern architecture meets rich maritime history and vibrant local culture.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Oratory Dún Laoghaire
0.3 km
Discover the serene beauty and spiritual significance of The Oratory in Dún Laoghaire, an artistic gem along Dublin Bay.
St Michael’s Church
0.5 km
Discover the architectural beauty and serene ambiance of St Michael's Church in Dún Laoghaire, a must-visit spiritual landmark on Ireland's coast.
Dun Laoghaire Marina
0.5 km
Discover the beauty and charm of Dun Laoghaire Marina, Dublin's premier coastal destination for relaxation and recreation.
Pavilion Theatre
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant performing arts scene at Pavilion Theatre in Dún Laoghaire, featuring live music, theater, and film screenings.
Dún Laoghaire Harbour
0.6 km
Explore the scenic Dún Laoghaire Harbour, a captivating blend of maritime history, stunning coastal views, and vibrant local culture.
Pavillion Dun Laoghaire
0.7 km
Experience the beauty of Pavilion Dun Laoghaire, a tranquil park on Dublin's coastline perfect for relaxation, picnics, and scenic walks.
Dun Laoghaire Port
0.7 km
Explore the stunning Dun Laoghaire Port, a picturesque seaport with vibrant culture, scenic promenades, and delightful dining options along the Irish coast.
West Harbour Dún Laoghaire
0.7 km
Explore the picturesque West Harbour Dún Laoghaire, where stunning coastal views and rich maritime culture await every visitor.
King George IV Monument
0.7 km
Discover the rich history of Dún Laoghaire at the King George IV Monument, a stunning tribute to Ireland's heritage.
RMS Leinster Memorial
0.7 km
Discover the poignant RMS Leinster Memorial in Dún Laoghaire, Dublin - a serene tribute to maritime history amid breathtaking coastal views.
LexIcon Library and Cultural Centre
0.8 km
Explore the LexIcon Library and Cultural Centre in Dún Laoghaire, a vibrant hub celebrating literature, arts, and community engagement.
Carlisle Pier
0.8 km
Discover the charm and history of Carlisle Pier, a historic landmark in Dublin, perfect for leisurely walks and breathtaking views of the harbor.
National Maritime Museum of Ireland
0.8 km
Discover Ireland's rich maritime heritage at the National Maritime Museum of Ireland in Dun Laoghaire, a captivating experience for all ages.
Crimean War Cannon
0.9 km
Explore the Crimean War Cannon in Dún Laoghaire, a significant historical landmark offering stunning coastal views and a glimpse into Ireland's military past.
Dun Laoghaire Harbour West
1.0 km
Discover the picturesque Dun Laoghaire Harbour West, where stunning views meet vibrant maritime culture in County Dublin.
Essential places to dine
Seasons Restaurant
6.6 km
Experience the finest in modern Irish cuisine at Seasons Restaurant in Dublin, where seasonal ingredients meet exceptional culinary artistry.
Mulberry Garden
7.0 km
Experience exquisite Irish cuisine at Mulberry Garden, where tradition meets innovation in a charming Dublin setting.
The Old Spot
7.6 km
Experience the best of Irish gastronomy at The Old Spot - where tradition meets modern culinary excellence in Dublin.
Bloom Brasserie
8.0 km
Savor the essence of French cuisine at Bloom Brasserie – Dublin's hidden culinary gem with exquisite flavors and warm hospitality.
The Little Kitchen
8.2 km
Discover the flavors of Ireland at The Little Kitchen - where traditional meets modern in a cozy Dublin setting.
La Peniche
8.2 km
Experience modern Irish cuisine aboard La Peniche on Dublin's scenic Grand Canal - where taste meets tranquility.
Suesey Street
8.4 km
Experience the finest modern European cuisine at Suesey Street in Dublin, where fresh ingredients meet innovative cooking in a stylish setting.
MV Cill Airne
8.6 km
Discover the essence of modern European cuisine at MV Cill Airne – where exceptional flavors meet breathtaking riverside views in Dublin.
Dax Restaurant
8.7 km
Experience the finest European and French cuisine at Dax Restaurant in Dublin – where every dish is crafted to perfection.
Note Dublin
8.7 km
Experience innovative Spanish cuisine at Note Dublin – where every dish tells a story in the heart of Ireland's vibrant capital.
Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud
8.8 km
Experience culinary artistry at Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud – Dublin's premier destination for exquisite fine dining with seasonal Irish flavors.
The Cellar Bar
8.8 km
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The Garden Room
8.8 km
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Pearl Brasserie
8.8 km
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Etto
8.8 km
Discover Etto: Dublin's premier modern European restaurant offering exquisite local flavors and an inviting atmosphere perfect for all diners.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Stillorgan Village
3.9 km
Explore Stillorgan Village: A Dublin shopping haven offering unique boutiques, eateries, and a vibrant local atmosphere for every visitor.
Ribbon Rouge Boutique
5.4 km
Discover the latest trends in women's fashion at Ribbon Rouge Boutique in Dublin's Merrion Shopping Centre, a must-visit for fashion enthusiasts.
Coco Boutique Dublin
5.5 km
Explore Coco Boutique Dublin for unique fashion and accessories, capturing Dublin's stylish essence in every piece.
A Gift Ireland
8.5 km
Discover authentic Irish souvenirs at A Gift Ireland, a charming shop in the heart of Dublin, perfect for unique keepsakes from your travels.
Louise Kennedy
8.5 km
Explore the luxurious world of Louise Kennedy, Dublin's premier fashion designer, offering timeless women's clothing with a touch of elegance.
Traditional Craft Limited
8.6 km
Explore Traditional Craft Limited in Dublin for unique handmade crafts that showcase Ireland's rich artistic heritage and creativity.
Beautiful South
8.6 km
Discover unique fashion pieces and local designs at Beautiful South, Rathmines' iconic boutique for stylish shoppers.
The Gallery Shop
8.9 km
Explore The Gallery Shop in Dublin for unique gifts and art-inspired treasures that reflect Ireland's rich cultural heritage.
Kilkenny Design
9.1 km
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EPIC Museum Gift Shop
9.2 km
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Cogs Toys & Games
9.3 km
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Ted Baker - Dublin
9.3 km
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Trinity Gift Shop
9.3 km
Discover unique Irish gifts and souvenirs at Trinity Gift Shop, nestled in the historic Trinity College Dublin, a must-visit for every traveler.
Carrolls Irish Gifts
9.3 km
Explore Carrolls Irish Gifts in Dublin for unique Irish souvenirs, traditional crafts, and authentic gifts that capture the heart of Ireland.
TK Maxx
9.3 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Americana Cocktail Bar
7.9 km
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Searsons
7.9 km
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The Green Room Bar
8.4 km
Experience the best of Dublin dining at The Green Room Bar, where exceptional grill flavors meet a lively pub atmosphere in North Wall.
Maher's Pub
8.4 km
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McGrattans Pub
8.7 km
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Toners
8.7 km
Discover the heart of Dublin's pub culture at Toners, where traditional Irish hospitality meets lively entertainment and delicious cuisine.
Doheny & Nesbitt
8.7 km
Discover the authentic Irish pub experience at Doheny & Nesbitt, Dublin's iconic bar known for its rich history and vibrant atmosphere.
Reilly's Bar
8.8 km
Reilly's Bar in Dublin: A cozy haven for tourists, offering a wide selection of drinks and live music in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
O'Donoghues Bar
8.8 km
Experience the warmth of Irish hospitality at O'Donoghues Bar, Dublin's iconic pub known for its traditional music and authentic atmosphere.
Blackbird
8.8 km
Discover the lively spirit of Rathmines at Blackbird Pub, a charming spot for drinks, food, and local vibes in the heart of Dublin.
The Sin Bin
8.8 km
Experience Dublin's vibrant sports culture at The Sin Bin, where delicious food, refreshing drinks, and live sports create an unforgettable atmosphere.
The Horseshoe Bar
9.0 km
Discover The Horseshoe Bar, a must-visit grill in Dublin, blending traditional Irish hospitality with contemporary dining experiences.
No. 27 Bar & Lounge
9.0 km
Experience the elegance of No. 27 Bar & Lounge in Dublin, where unique cocktails and delightful desserts await in a sophisticated setting.
Pavilion Bar
9.0 km
Discover the vibrant Pavilion Bar in Dublin, where affordable drinks and a lively atmosphere await in the heart of the city.
Cellar 22
9.1 km
Discover Cellar 22, Dublin's top wine bar and restaurant, offering a perfect blend of exquisite wines and delicious culinary delights in a charming atmosphere.