What to See and Do in Dublin if You Are on a Business Trip

People who often travel for business may not always categorize their trips as enjoyable experiences. Business travelling is usually associated with demanding meeting schedules and working long hours. However, if you are travelling to a vibrant and interesting city like Dublin, there are a number of ways you can make your trip fun and amusing!

The home of Guinness and the high living poets and writers as Oscar Wilde and James Joyce has most certainly a lot to offer to those who visit it for the first time. The capital of Ireland has experienced an enormous growth throughout the last decade. Today, the city represents a mix of modern facilities where the country’s biggest companies are based, and the already-existing historic Georgian architecture. Let’s find out how to get the most out of your next business trip to Dublin!

Before you go, make sure these 3 things are ‘checked’

Business trips may not always be the most joyful. However, it would be a shame not to discover the many unique, exciting secret spots in Dublin. So even though these three tips refer to any business trip, make sure you address these three important things.

1. Plan your flights

If you have can fly into the city a day or two ahead of your meetings, don’t miss the chance. You will easily understand this if you have ever experienced jetlag. Not to mention that even though there are various ways to deal with it, there is a chance that you might not be at your best if you are tired. So try to fly a day ahead. And if you are refreshed and energized, take advantage to do a bit of sightseeing.

2. A comfortable hotel is always a good idea

Every person has a different taste when choosing a hotel comes to question. If you don’t want to be staying too far from the airport, Maldron Hotels as well as smaller budget hotels are located within a few minute drive. There are many hotels in the Dockland’s area, as well as the boutique Marker Hotel in Grand Canal and well known hotel groups located close to the key business districts.

 3. Make time for sightseeing!

From museums to castles, from places to eat and drink to places with great music, this city has it all. So, in order to make the most of your business trip to Ireland’s capital, it’s important to set aside some time for sightseeing. There are many things you want to see.

12 things you shouldn’t miss on your business trip to Dublin!

Known for its colourful doorways, historic architecture, live music and beer, Dublin has a lot of things to offer to its tourists. Here are some of the greatest things to do in Dublin during your business trip.

1. St. Patrick’s Cathedral

This cathedral remains one of the few buildings standing from medieval Dublin. Its grandeur and beautiful architecture shouldn’t be missed when on a trip to the capital. Nobody can be indifferent to the delicate details of the Gothic style and the towering vaulted ceilings of the cathedral. St Patrick’s Cathedral is the largest cathedral in Dublin and the national cathedral of the Church of England. 

Tip: Try to enter it in the morning before the tourist crowds descend, as it can get crowded and loud. Also, you may want to check their official website to check the admission for entrance.

2. Christ Church Cathedral

Are you interested in finding out more about what life was like in Ireland back in the 1030s? Step into this Cathedral to discover its magnificent nave, wonderful interior. Its fascinating medieval crypt, as well as many important treasures will take your breath away!

Thanks to the guided tours at the Christ Church Cathedral, you can explore the narrow corridors and even ring the bell for yourself!

3. Don’t miss enjoying an Irish breakfast

 They say ‘Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and dine like a pauper’. So why not start your day with a big breakfast? The Irish tend to do it all the time. When in Dublin, don’t miss having a traditional Irish breakfast. This means that you will be getting cooked meat, such as bacon and sausages, eggs, tomatoes, potato all fried in butter, mushrooms and brown bread. Sounds tasty yet? The reason behind having a breakfast high in calories was to prepare people for a full day’s work on the farm on a cold winter.

4. If you are a fan of books, read at Trinity College Library

If you have enough time, check out the Old Library at the Trinity College. Being Ireland’s oldest university, this college hosted students such as the poet Oscar Wilde and Jonathan Swift. Moreover, the Old Library is the home of about 200,000 ancient books, which was why it was an inspiration for Hogwart’s in J.K. Rowling’s ‘Harry Potter’ books.

5. The statue of Oscar Wilde

Sitting in a corner of Merrion Square Park, this statue is located opposite of where the famous Irish poet and playwright lived for a while. If you find yourself close to it while on your sightseeing, don’t miss checking it out. Each and every detail shows the attention it was given during the entire sculpting process. So, if you are a fan of Oscar Wilde, this spot is a must! 

6. The buskers on Grafton Street

As Irish say ‘You never know what you might find on Grafton Street, but you are certainly guaranteed a great show!’, this is an amazing spot for good fun. From traditional Irish music, to rock or pop, Grafton Street offers free entertainment and will be the perfect getaway on your Irish business trip.

7. Phoenix Park

This park represents a natural treasure for the people of Ireland. Europe’s largest urban park opened 350 years ago, and has a span of 7 square kilometres. The Phoenix Park is where Dublin Zoo is located, but what it’s really known for is the wild herd of deer, which can be seen roaming through the forest when you least expect it.

 Tip: Depending on the type of business trip and the amount of free time, Phoenix Park is the ideal place for an afternoon picnic. Keep your eyes open, as deer are known to join in from time to time.

 8. Don’t miss a bite from the traditional ‘Fish n’ Chips’

 You shouldn’t leave Dublin without having tried traditional Fish ‘n’ Chips! There is one place that is famous for this dish, though. Opened in 1913, Leo Burdocks Fish ‘n’ Chips is so good that even celebrities and politicians from all around the world paid a trip to the shop. However, the shop itself has room for only about three people, so grab your food and you can head down to St. Patrick’s Cathedral, which is nearby.

9. Take a magnificent photo while walking down Ha’ Penny Bridge

If you are in the area, it’s a must for every visitor. The historic bridge over the Liffey River was built in 1816. You can even rent a kayak and go under the bridge for a more unique experience. The sight of Dublin’s sunsets on the bridge is a one-of-a-kind experience, so you might want to visit it in the afternoon.

Fun fact: The Bridge was named after the ‘half-penny’ toll that people had to pay in order to cross it.

10.  The Howth Cliff Walk

Are you a nature lover who’d rather spend their free time during their business trip outside of Dublin city center? Then the coastal town of Howth should be number one on your list of things to see. This is where you will find the best seafood in Dublin, buy great souvenirs at the weekend markets and experience coastal hikes with magnificent, picturesque views over the Irish Sea. It’s easy to reach it by bus, or you can even rent a car.

Tip: Even though Howth Cliss if pretty suitable for people with different fitness levels, you should keep in mind that it may be dangerous to walk in difficult weather conditions. In this case it is advised to stay cozy in one of the pubs and restaurants located nearby.

11. Allow yourself to wander off to the Temple Bar area

This maze of narrow streets full of live music and amazing Irish pubs is one of the oldest areas in Dublin and home to some of the most famous bars in Ireland. It’s a must if you want to experience Dublin’s nightlife and a good excuse to try Irish whiskey and Guiness beer. Take a stroll down these streets and enjoy its galleries, record stores and old vintage clothing shops.

12.  Would you rather spend your free time in a museum?

The National Leprechaun Museum, The Little Museum of Dublin, The National Gallery of Ireland, The Irish Museum of Modern Art, the National Museum of Ireland and many other museums belong to the array of options this town has to offer. So, if you are a fan of museums, or if the weather conditions are challenging, you can opt for any of these enchanting museums and galleries. 

Ready to enjoy your next business trip to the capital of Ireland?

The capital city of the Emerald Isle has a great cultural significance. It can offer a lot to anyone who visits it. A business trip to Dublin doesn’t mean that one has to miss out on the city’s vibrant side. This city is immensely rich in Irish history and culture, so it’s definitely worth it to dedicate some hours of your trip for a look around!