Dublin

Dublin is a warm, walkable capital with over a thousand years of history and a famously friendly welcome. It's a city where you can tour a medieval castle in the morning, browse a gallery in the afternoon and end the night listening to live music, all without ever needing a car. And staying at UCD puts all of it within easy reach.

History and Culture

Start with the classics. Visit Trinity College and the Book of Kells, wander the grounds of Dublin Castle, discover how the perfect pint is made at the Guinness Storehouse and soak up the atmosphere in Temple Bar. Step into Ireland's story at Kilmainham Gaol, one of the most moving visits in the city, and it's wise to book ahead as tours sell out. Explore EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, admire St Patrick's Cathedral and Christ Church, then join the crowds strolling Grafton Street, relaxing in St Stephen's Green and crossing the Ha'penny Bridge. You'll also find world class galleries and museums, many of them free to visit, including the National Gallery of Ireland and the National Museum.

Events and Entertainment

Dublin comes alive in summer. Catch a show at the Bord Gáis Energy Theatre, a gig at the 3Arena or the RDS, a match at the Aviva Stadium or Croke Park, or a race meeting at Leopardstown, all within 25 minutes of campus. Book your tickets, stay with us and you can be back relaxing on campus shortly after the final curtain or the full time whistle.

Family Days Out

Travelling with the family? Spend a day in Phoenix Park, one of the largest enclosed parks in any European capital and home to Dublin Zoo, then let the kids burn off any leftover energy in the green spaces right outside your door back on campus.

Coast and Countryside

When you fancy some fresh air, the coast is on your doorstep. Stroll the pier at Dún Laoghaire, explore the pretty villages of Dalkey and Killiney, or brave a proper Irish sea swim at the Forty Foot in Sandycove. Head north for the cliff walk and fresh seafood in Howth, take in the sweep of Sandymount Strand, or point yourself at the Dublin Mountains for a morning hike. Few capital cities let you pair a swim in the sea with an afternoon in a museum quite so easily, and from Dublin 4 the south coast villages are practically on your doorstep.

Food and Nightlife

Dublin's food scene runs from cosy traditional pubs to some of the most exciting restaurants in Europe. Spend your evenings sampling seafood by the coast, finding your new favourite pub or following the sound of live music through the city streets. Then catch the bus home and sleep soundly in the parkland quiet of Dublin 4.

More Dublin for Your Money

Here's the best part. Staying at UCD means you can see more and spend less. Save €20 per night when you book direct, then put your budget towards theatre tickets, gallery visits, concerts, day trips and memorable meals rather than an expensive hotel room. More memories, less accommodation spend.