Last Updated: 28/10/23 | Read Time : 8 Minutes
Discover Dublin, the vibrant capital of Ireland, is a city steeped in history, culture, and undeniable charm. While exploring this iconic city, one district that stands out is Dublin 7, a blend of modernity and tradition.
In just 48 hours, you can immerse yourself in a whirlwind of delicious dining experiences, delightful drinks, and memorable stays. Here’s a curated guide on how to have a incredible experience for visitors in Dublin 7.
Day 1: discover Dublin 7’s gastronomic delights
Morning: breakfast at slice
Start your day at Slice, a cozy café located in Stoneybatter, a lively neighbourhood in Dublin 7. The charming interior and aromatic coffee set the perfect tone for the day ahead.
Indulge in a hearty breakfast, perhaps their renowned avocado toast or a classic Irish breakfast, to energize yourself for the adventure. We’d stumble out of bed and tumble into slice quite early as it is usually busy, but well worth the wait.
Late morning: explore the phoenix park
After a delicious breakfast, head to the Phoenix Park in Dublin 8, a short distance from Stoneybatter. This haven of lush greenery and captivating flora is a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. Take a leisurely stroll amidst the serenity of Europe’s largest city park and you can go deer sighting as well!
The Phoenix Park is home to a large colony of free-range deer which can be found if you look hard enough. Home to Dublin Zoo, one of the oldest in the world, this memorable experience is a fun activity to do while in the Phoenix Park.
If you want to get a little more active, why not experience Irish streets in a unique way and rent a bicycle to get around the park!
Lunch: Ryan’s of parkgate street
For lunch, head to Ryan’s of Parkgate Street. It’s on the way back to Smithfield. This Victorian pub turned n b is part of the FX Buckley group so you know that the steak will be phenomenal.
If you’re looking for something lighter, they offer up elevated pub grub with oysters, steak and Guinness pies, and a few fish dishes. The menu features a wide array of craft beers, wines, and spirits. Soak up the culture and refuel after your morning walk.
As you leave Ryan’s and you’ll find your way towards Benburb Street, home to one of my favourite Irish history museums.
Afternoon: visit the national museum of Ireland at collins barracks
The National Museum of Ireland at Collin’s Barracks is a must see in the area. Only a 5-minute walk from Ryan’s of Parkgate Street, this museum has a fascinating collection of artefacts from Ireland’s military past.
If tanks and guns aren’t your thing, head up to the top floor for their design collection which hosts a beautiful history of Irish clothing, textiles, and furniture design. It offers an intimate insight into the lives of Irish people through history.
This Irish history museum has both permanent and temporary collections on display, and entry is free!
Evening: dinner at fish shop
For a memorable dinner experience, head to Fish Shop on Benburb Street. This tiny, bodega style restaurant has some of the best fish in Dublin City Centre.
From oysters, cockles, and mussels to beer battered catch of the day this is a high-quality menu championing Irish produce. It has a wine list to die for as well! Be sure to book ahead though as it fills up fast.
This is not your Grandad’s idea of a fish and chips shop, it’s a small and cozy restaurant with about 12 stools and limited counter space. With gluten free options available, it’s one of the only places for a coeliac to eat a Fish and Chips in Dublin City.
Nightlife: the Cobblestone for traditional Irish music
Dublin 7 boasts a lively nightlife scene, offering an array of pubs and live music venues. The oldest and most traditional has to be The Cobblestone Pub. Traditional Irish musicians play live in the pub every night so there’s always a great atmosphere and the pints are some of the best in Dublin.
Ironically, it is not surrounded by cobblestone streets, rather just on one side you will find a patchy cobblestone street on Red Cow Lane. However, what you will find is a cultural experience that you won’t find on Dawson Street or Drury Street.
The Cobblestone is an interactive experience for all, and it is open to all, with their trad sessions starting no later than 7pm until late. There is no better end to your first day in Dublin 7 than in the Cobblestone.
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Day 2: discover Dublin through charming Stays and culinary exploration
Morning: breakfast at wuff
Kick off your second day with a visit to Wuff. Only around the corner from The Hendrick, this trendy café is known for its excellent coffee and delicious brunch options.
Wuff is a locally owned bistro, offering ever-changing menus with Gluten free and Veggie options. Using the freshest of local produce to create stunning dishes. The stylish setting and friendly service provide the perfect start to your day. Enjoy their delightful breakfast dishes and a cup of expertly brewed coffee.
Late morning: discover the Jameson distillery
No visit to Dublin is complete without exploring the rich heritage of Irish whiskey. Head to the Jameson Distillery in Smithfield to learn about the distillation process and history of this beloved Irish spirit.
Bow St is more than an Irish Whiskey Museum. There is a tour for everybody at the Jameson Experience, from their distillery tour where you get to learn the craft and history of whiskey distillation, to their cocktail masterclass where you can create your own Jameson cocktails, and for the real whiskey aficionados, on the blending experience you can mix your own distinct blend to take home with you!
Lunch: third space
For lunch, visit Third Space, a delightful eatery focusing on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Their diverse menu offers a range of options, from salads to gourmet sandwiches.
This social enterprise is the cornerstone of Smithfield community, they are invested in the community and the environment as much as offering delicious lunch options. Guests of the Hendrick get a 10% discount!
Discover Dublin & stay at the Hendrick
Discover Irish Heritage and modern street art at the Hendrick Hotel in Smithfield, only minutes from popular tourist attractions like Temple Bar, Grafton Street, Christchurch Cathedral, Trinity College and Dublin Castle.
The Hendrick offers our guests a rich history of street art, surprising experiences in our
Book in on any Friday or Saturday night and enjoy a special cocktail on arrival and free late check out at 1pm…What you do with the extra time is up to you 😉
All rooms in the Hendrick have
- Individually Controlled Air Conditioning
- Power Shower with Rituals Toiletries
- 32″ TV with Chromecast
- Free High-Speed WiFi
- Safe suitable for laptops up to 13″
- Tea & Coffee
So what are you waiting for,
Afternoon: head up the Generator tower
Get a bird’s eye view of Dublin from the top of The Generator Tower. This breathtaking climb offers a unique vantage point of the city with views from the Wicklow mountains to the Irish sea.
It’s a great spot for photos and a quirky vantage point. It’s 259 steps up to the top, don’t say we didn’t warn you! Grab your tickets for just €5 from The Generator Hostel reception for this hour-long experience over the Dublin City Skyline.
As you look out from the old Jameson distillery tower, you will see that each location is printed on the windows ensuring there is no confusion over where you are looking at.
Evening: dinner at Mcgettigan’s
McGettigan’s Townhouse has just recently been renovated and revamped with a whole new and exciting menu going into their groundfloor restaurant. It is a gorgeous bar in its own right but this elevated evening menu makes the experience all the more special. Only a stone’s throw from The Hendrick, this is a chance to taste all Smithfield has to offer.
Nightlife: pub crawl in Dublin 7
End your 48-hour adventure with a pub crawl through Dublin 7. Explore the local pubs, savouring the authentic Irish pub culture and lively ambience. Engage with locals and fellow travellers as you toast to a fantastic time in this charming part of Dublin.
Our favourites are Bonobo for the amazing beer garden, head off the beaten track at Frank Ryan’s, venture a little bit further to Sin É for a night of rock music, or just chill in The Hendrick lobby with an expertly crafted cocktail.
The wrap up
Dublin 7 offers everything you need for to eat, drink, and stay for a Dublin city centre break. Book your stay with us now and see all the area has to offer! We’re just 30 minutes from Dublin Airport and moments away from Temple Bar but we’re proud of our neighbourhood in Dublin City.
Smithfield has lots to offer and 48 hours simply an ideal time to discover, but we wouldn’t say no to another day! We’re on one of Dublin’s famous streets and seconds from Smithfield square, nestled between some of our favourite eateries, famous attractions, Irish history museums and much more!
Book your stay at the Hendrick now and Discover Dublin 7 yourself.