Spend a magical christmas shopping day in Dublin

Last Updated 30/11 | Read Time: 6 Minutes

Dublin transforms into a captivating winter wonderland during the festive season, beckoning visitors with its enchanting atmosphere and an array of Christmas-themed attractions. Embark on a magical Christmas shopping adventure in Dublin, where you’ll discover a wide range of unique treasures, indulge in traditional food, and immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant festive spirit.

Have a look at our foolproof itinerary for a shopping trip in Dublin 2 looking for the perfect gift. Staying at the Hendrick for a Dublin Christmas Shopping Break during this magical time, you’ll find a ton of activities in the fair city. While you can spend time in Temple Bar or around the winding streets in it, we think you will love what we have in mind.

Morning:

 

9:00 am: christmas shopping spree on grafton street

Kickstart your Christmas shopping spree by venturing into the heart of Dublin’s premier shopping district, Grafton Street. Wander along the bustling streets, lined with a captivating array of shops, from high-street brands to independent boutiques. Browse through an extensive selection of gifts, from personalized ornaments, scented candles, soft furnishings to handcrafted Irish souvenirs, and immerse yourself in the festive ambiance.

Grafton Street is adorned with plenty of stores, but the magic happens at one luxurious department store, Brown Thomas. If you’re not drawn in by the dazzling lights or the beautiful decorations, then the marvelous gifts on display will draw you in.

The Brown Thomas Christmas Shop has a new theme each year. The theme for 2023s BT Christmas Shop is timeless treasures, midnight magic, and vintage noel. You will find trees, decorations, lights, garlands & wreaths on offer in this iconic Grafton Street store.

Insider tip: Veer off the main shopping street and check out the Powerscourt Shopping Centre for a treasure trove of independent Irish boutique designers and businesses! You’ll be able to find some personalised gifts, tree decorations and plenty of things to gift for beauty lovers.

Grafton Street at Christmas. Source: Fáilte Ireland

11:00 am: a literary and artistic scape at chester beatty library

Step away from the hustle and bustle of shopping and immerse yourself in a world of literary and artistic treasures at the Chester Beatty Library. This renowned institution houses an exceptional collection of manuscripts, books, and artifacts spanning centuries and cultures. Admire intricate calligraphy, vibrant illustrations, and fascinating historical objects that offer a glimpse into the world’s rich heritage.

Chester Beatty Library. Source: Fáilte Ireland

1:00 pm: delightful lunch at Bewley’s café

After your cultural immersion, fuel your shopping energy with a delightful lunch at Bewley’s Café, a Dublin institution since 1849. Nestled amidst the bustling Grafton Street, this charming café offers a warm and inviting ambiance. Savor the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and indulge in their famous cakes, pastries, and traditional Irish fare.

Bewley’s Café. Source: Tourism Ireland

Insider tip: If the queue is too long, grab a takeaway and enjoy an impromptu picnic in St Stephen’s Green! Make sure you wrap up well, this city get’s cold! You can also find some nice spots around the Stephen’s Green Shopping Centre.

Afternoon:

2:00 pm: a royal journey through Dublin castle

Embark on a captivating journey through Dublin Castle which will be completely transformed into a Winter Wonderland this December! Explore the majestic State Apartments, adorned with exquisite décor and steeped in centuries of history or check out the boutique Christmas Markets and festive food and drink offerings.

Christmas at the Castle takes place from the 6th of December until the 19th. The boutique market vendors will trade from 12 noon until 9pm. There will be a festive selection of toys, delicate decor, jewellery clothing and lots of festive season magic.

Christmas at the Castle. Source: Failte Ireland

5:00 pm: festive aperitif at loose canon

As the sun begins to set, head to Loose Canon, a popular wine and cheese bar on Drury St, for pre-dinner drinks. This laid-back bodega offers an impressive menu of natural wines by the glass and a selection of Irish and international cheese. Enjoy a glass of something funky on the coolest street in Dublin… outside of Smithfield that is

Loose Canon on Drury Street. Source: Fáilte Ireland

6:00 pm: follow in James Joyce’s footsteps at davy byrne’s

Savor a hearty and traditional Irish dinner at Davy Byrne’s Pub on Duke Street. This beloved Dublin institution has served generations of locals and visitors, offering a taste of authentic Irish cuisine. Indulge in a classic Irish stew, shepherd’s pie, or fish and chips, accompanied by a refreshing pint of Guinness, and immerse yourself in the warm and lively atmosphere. Featured in James Joyce’s Ulysees, Davy Byrne’s has been delighting Dubliner’s and literature fans for the past 100 years!

Davy Byrne’s Bar on Bloomsday 2022. Source: Marcelline Roulleau

Evening

7:00pm: freshen up at the Hendrick and discover the Dublin nightlife

Come back to the Hendrick and freshen up in your room. Jump into the power shower and scrub with our Rituals toiletries. When you’re ready to rock, come down to our bar. We offer Bites, brews and bangin’ cocktails. Pop in for a bit or stay for a while. Make some mates and go cause some trouble. Make the Hendrick Bar your starting point and discover the many nearby Smithfield pubs.

Continue your night in Dublin 2 with a meal at Zampa’s. After a long day browsing for gift ideas in our fabulous shopping town, you’ll want to refuel. If you’ve had enough mince pies and festive dining, then Zampas is a perfect stop on your weekend break in Dublin. This Peruvian inspired grill offers a brilliant selection of dishes.

9:00pm: enjoy a festive tipple in one of the many Dublin 2 bars

Bailey’s, Hot Toddys, a Pint of Guinness or even a Coca Cola, you’ll find your match in one of Dublin’s festively decorated bars. After a long day of shopping you will have completed your list and now be able to relax and enjoy the craic of Dublin.

Staying in the Hendrick allows you to enjoy the best of Dublin, knowing that you have a brilliant hub to go back to each night. Book your shopping break in Dublin this December!

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