Last Updated: 03/01/24 | Read Time : 8 Minutes
This Valentine’s Day in Dublin, there are plenty of romantic activities to enjoy with your loved one. Take a stroll through the charming streets of Dublin on a romantic walking tour, exploring the city’s historic landmarks and picturesque parks. For a truly unforgettable evening, attend a candlelit concert at one of Dublin’s renowned music venues, where you can bask in the ambiance and enjoy a magical performance with your partner.
Indulge in a special set menu offering at one of the city’s top restaurants, where you can savor delectable dishes in a romantic setting. Visit the relics of St. Valentine, the patron saint of love, at the Whitefriar Street Church, or dedicate yourself to the pursuit of puppy love by spending some quality time with adorable dogs at a local shelter.
Dublin’s restaurants offer a variety of creative potions and culinary concoctions to delight your taste buds this Valentine’s Day. Show some love to your significant other or friends by surprising them with thoughtful gestures, such as a bouquet of flowers, a handwritten love note, or a homemade meal.
With these romantic activities and heartfelt gestures, this Valentine’s Day in Dublin is sure to be a memorable and love-filled experience.
Dublin valentine’s day date ideas
Here’s 8 quick fire ideas for a Valentines Day Dublin date! Then we will delve into some of our favourites!
- Take a haunted walking tour of Dublin’s dark and mysterious past, visiting haunted buildings and spooky alleys.
- Enjoy a candlelit concert in St. Patrick’s Cathedral, where the stunning acoustics and romantic atmosphere will set the perfect mood for a memorable evening.
- Explore the city on a vintage Afternoon Tea bus tour, complete with live music and a glass of bubbly to toast to your love. This exclusive experience is a one-of-a-kind way to celebrate Valentine’s Day.
- Take a romantic stroll through Dublin’s enchanting Botanic Gardens, where you can admire the stunning array of flowers and plants while enjoying each other’s company.
- Treat yourselves to a private whiskey tasting at the historic Jameson distillery, where you can learn about the rich history of Irish whiskey and sample some of the finest blends.
- Embark on a cycling tour of Dublin’s hidden gems and lesser-known spots, discovering the city’s alternative side while enjoying some quality time together.
- Take a scenic train ride to the seaside town of Howth, where you can explore rugged cliffs, charming harbor, and indulge in a romantic seafood dinner overlooking the ocean.
- Book a private dance class for a fun and lighthearted Valentine’s Day activity, learning a new style of dance together and creating some magical moments on the dance floor.
With limited availability for many of these options, be sure to plan ahead and secure your spot for a truly quirky and alternative Valentine’s Day celebration in Dublin.
Stroll down love lane
Love Lane is a picturesque and romantic spot in Dublin, connecting Temple Bar to Dame Street. The lane is adorned with beautiful pink and red artworks celebrating love and romance, making it the perfect location for a romantic stroll.
Artists were given free reign to showcase notes, messages, and love letters, adding to the charm and allure of the lane. Love Lane is an ideal location for couples, friends, or family to walk together and immerse themselves in the romantic atmosphere.
Located in the heart of Dublin, Love Lane is easily accessible and offers free admission to all visitors. The best time to visit is during the early evening, when the setting sun adds to the magic of the surroundings.
If you’re looking for a romantic activity to enjoy with your Valentine, consider taking a hand-in-hand stroll down Love Lane and take in the romantic ambiance together. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, Love Lane is a must-see romantic spot in Dublin.
Visit the shrine of st Valentine
Are you ready to embark on a journey to the birthplace of romance? Join us as we explore the charming town of Terni, Italy, where the legend of St. Valentine began. Get ready to immerse yourself in the history and traditions of this iconic saint as we visit the places associated with his life and legacy.
Let’s uncover the fascinating story of St. Valentine and discover how his spirit continues to inspire love and devotion around the world. Get ready for a unique and enchanting experience as we take a closer look at the life of the patron saint of love, St. Valentine.
The Shrine of St Valentine is in the picturesque church of Whitefriar Street, about a 25 minute walk from the Hendrick Smithfield. This walk will take you through Love Lane and Temple Bar, to the resting place of the Saint of Love, Valentine on Aungier Street.
Who was saint valentine?
Saint Valentine was a Christian preacher and martyr who lived in the 3rd century. He is believed to have been a bishop in Terni, Italy, and was known for his dedication to Christianity and his compassion for those in need.
One legend suggests that he performed secret marriages for soldiers, defying the emperor’s orders, which ultimately led to his imprisonment and martyrdom. Another legend tells of his miraculous healing of his jailer’s daughter, with whom he exchanged letters signed “Your Valentine.”
Saint Valentine’s association with love and marriage traditions began in the Middle Ages when he became the patron saint of love. His feast day, February 14th, is celebrated as Valentine’s Day, a day dedicated to love and romance.
Over time, it has evolved into a day of expressing love through the exchange of cards, flowers, and gifts. His impact on these traditions has made Valentine’s Day a widely celebrated and beloved holiday around the world.
Stroll through phoenix park
Phoenix Park, located just minutes from our hotel, is one of the largest enclosed recreational spaces within any European city. Its 707 hectares of greenery offer a rich tapestry of flora and fauna, making it the perfect place for a romantic Valentine’s date.
The park is not only a beautiful natural landscape, but it also has a rich history dating back to the 1660s when it was opened as a royal deer park. Today, visitors can still encounter the park’s famed deer, who roam freely throughout the grounds, adding a magical touch to any stroll.
After a romantic walk through the park, couples can warm up at one of the charming cafes located nearby. The combination of a leisurely stroll through the scenic park followed by a cozy coffee date provides the perfect Valentine’s Day experience.
Whether it’s admiring the lush greenery, spotting the majestic deer, or savoring a cup of coffee amidst the park’s serene surroundings, Phoenix Park offers a unique and romantic experience for couples to enjoy. It is one of our favourite places for a romantic walk in Dublin City
Delicious dining in the city
Zampas is an incredible location for a Valentine’s Day meal in Dublin City. Choose from an easily drinkable bottle of wine to one of the signatures from the cocktail bar before settling in for a cosy night of dining.
Offering a creative 3-course dinner and a guaranteed night of romance, this is the ideal venue for those who don’t want the hassle of a tasting menu before continuing your night in one of our favourite bars in Smithfield.
Indulge in the delectable dessert options offered at Zampas restaurant. Satisfy your sweet tooth with the Dulce de Leche Parfait, a delightful combination of creamy parfait with a warmed apple & cinnamon doughnut to mop up the sweet parfait in this signature dish.
Or treat yourself to the De Matcha & Oreo cheesecake, a refreshing and tangy dessert with raspberry ripple and smashed white chocolate that perfectly complements the raspberry flavors.
For chocolate lovers, the Warm Churros is a must-try, served with a rich chocolate sauce to dunk the sugary dough into.
Whatever your preference, Zampas restaurant offers a wide range of dessert options to satisfy every craving and complete your dining experience. Whether you’re in the mood for something fruity, chocolatey, or savory, Zampas has the perfect sweet ending to your romantic dinner.
Games night at token
Nestled into the heart of Smithfield, Token is the ideal venue for a valentine’s date that avoids the awkward dinner experience of set menus. This hidden gem has long been a favourite of the Irish People, and there is no more romantic gesture than letting your better half win at Tekken!
Get ready for a night of fun and nostalgia at Token, Dublin’s premier retro arcade and pinball parlour. With over 40 arcade machines to choose from, including classics like Pac-Man and Street Fighter, as well as a vast array of pinball tables, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
The atmosphere at Token is always buzzing with excitement, making it the perfect spot for a games night with friends or a special valentine’s celebration. Sip on a wide selection of expertly crafted cocktails or a glass of wine while you battle it out on the arcade machines or challenge your partner to a game of pinball.
Whether you’re reliving your childhood memories or creating new ones with your loved one, Token’s games night offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
With its multi-award-winning status and dedication to providing a one-of-a-kind gaming experience, Token is the ultimate date night spot for anyone looking to have a blast while enjoying some retro gaming fun.
Check in to the date night package
Star Cross’d Lovers. Sneaky Link. Twin Flames. Whatever you want to call it, we’re here to celebrate it!
February is for lovers and The Hendrick is the ultimate destination for your romantic getaway.
Enjoy a one night stay with breakfast, late check out, and a bottle of prosecco for just €160 Sun-Thurs or €210 Fri-Sat.
With so many great options for dining and entertainment, we are the perfect base for your big night out (or in).
Book your Valentine Hotel Stay Now!
Book this exclusive offer from 1 Jan-31 Jan and stay between 1 Feb-8 Mar.
Offer subject to limited availability so get them before they’re gone!
Dublin valentine’s flea market
If you’re looking for something more casual to do this Valentine’s Day, The Flea Market in Dublin 1 is a brilliant place to find handmade gifts, fashion pieces for your date night and much more.
The market usually contains more than 25 stalls and is spread out over four different rooms in the iconic venue. Getting here early is the best option as it gets busy. Why not grab an authentic Irish Breakfast in one of our favourite spots to eat in Smithfield before going?
The market is held just a few steps from Ha’penny Bridge, and while it is a lovely photo opportunity, you cannot place a “love lock” on Dublin’s Iconic bridge.
The wrap up
Dublin is known for its rich Irish culture, and what better way to celebrate Valentine’s Day than with a stay in the Hendrick Smithfield? Enjoy traditional Irish cuisine and live music in the neighbourhood to make your evening both delicious and romantic.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening out or the perfect gift for your loved one, Dublin offers a variety of Valentine’s Day experiences that celebrate Irish culture and create lasting memories. Make a day of it for these experiences and book your Valentine’s Hotel stay now!