Five hidden gems in Dublin you won’t want to miss

Dublin. The capital city of arguably the friendliest country on earth, Ireland.
Five hidden gems in Dublin you won’t want to miss

Home to centuries of history and mythical storytelling, popular bars and restaurants, and a certain drink beginning with G, Dublin is an incredibly popular tourist city.

In 2024 alone, Ireland attracted 6.2 million visitors to the country, with a majority of them visiting this thriving capital city.

And as with any big city, there are its popular spots (see Temple Bar) but then there are also those little hidden gems that are just begging to be visited by tourists happy to explore off the beaten track.

Here, we’ve got five such gems that you should bookmark the next time you visit.

1. Marsh’s Library

First up we have Marsh’s Library, sitting on St Patrick’s Close, next door to St Patrick’s Cathedral.

This 18th-century library is the dictionary definition of a hidden treasure. Set back from the bustling Temple Bar and O’Connell street, this library provides the perfect opportunity to soak up some Irish history in a relaxed setting among historic texts.

While Trinity College, just 20 minutes from Marsh’s, attracts a lot of attention from tourists, this lesser-known library is the perfect start for your hidden gem journey around Dublin.

2. The Little Museum of Dublin

Often we think of Irish history from years gone by but The Little Museum of Dublin exists to provide visitors with insight into more contemporary history - specifically the 20th century.

Located a couple of streets down from the famous St Stephen’s Green, The Little Museum charts the history of Dublin specifically over the last 100 years.

Covering conflicts such as The Easter Rising and the Irish Civil War, this museum might be small but it packs a mighty historical punch. Its guided tours ensure visitors get the most out of their visit and leave them feeling more connected to the city.

3. Bar 1661

When thinking of Dublin you’d be forgiven for assuming it's full of pubs serving pint after pint of Guinness. And, while that is of course true that doesn’t mean there isn't a wide variety of cocktail bars in Dublin serving classic drinks in modern, cosy atmospheres.

One such place, and another hidden treasure, is Bar 1661. You can find this trendy speakeasy located on the corner of Green Street and Little Britain Street in the North of the city.

Using the once illegal poitín (pronounced potcheen), which is essentially Irish Moonshine, the bar has reclaimed the spirit and used it to create exciting, vibrant cocktails.

Put simply, Bar 1661 is the perfect place to unwind from a busy day in the capital.

4. The Woollen Mills

After a busy day taking in the sights and sampling some of the spirits, it’s time to head back to your Dublin hotel to freshen up for an evening of entertainment and culinary delights.

To enjoy all of what Dublin’s food scene has to offer head to The Woollen Mills Eating House. Found right next to the famous Ha’penny Bridge, this restaurant and bar serves traditional Irish food in a fresh, contemporary way.

Think fresh Sea Bream, with crushed potatoes, or try the Braised Irish lamb gnocchi complete with an aged Parmesan and Parsley pesto - it's Irish food but not as you know it!

5. St. Michan's Church and the Crypts

This final hidden gem is a bit more on the spooky side but no less existing. St. Michan's Church and the Crypts is located on Church Street, a street or two north of the river Liffey

On entry, visit the crypts down below featuring well-preserved mummies and the body of a 400-year-old nun!

Hidden gems and delights await you in Dublin

Dublin’s rich tapestry, combining the past with the modern, makes for an unforgettable place to visit.

These five hidden gems are just a small number of attractions that are dotted throughout Ireland’s capital. Be sure to research some of the other best places to visit in Dublin before visiting.

All that’s left to say is ‘Slainte!’