What to do in Dublin with kids

Ireland

Planning a family trip often comes with the challenge of finding activities that will keep the youngest travellers entertained. Children can be the toughest critics, and typical sightseeing—like museums, historic landmarks, and city tours—might not always capture their interest, which can affect everyone's experience.

To help make your trip to Dublin enjoyable for all, we’ve created a guide that brings together the best things to do in Dublin with kids. With these suggestions, your little ones will have an unforgettable time in Dublin and cherish the memories of Ireland for years to come.

The Chocolate Warehouse: a must visit for sweet tooths

For kids and adults alike with a love for chocolate, The Chocolate Warehouse is a dream come true. The moment you step in, you're greeted by the aroma of chocolate and an array of flavours and colours, making it an instant hit. This sweet haven is designed to create lasting memories for children, thanks to its fun, family-friendly atmosphere and enthusiastic staff.

During the visit, you’ll discover the history of chocolate through videos, get hands-on by making your own chocolate, and even compete in fun quizzes to test your knowledge of this sweet. It’s the perfect mix of fun and flavour—what more could you ask for?

Search for the Leprechauns

Leprechauns, the iconic Irish creatures in green with top hats, gold coins, and lucky shamrocks, are an icon of Ireland. They play a central role in Irish mythology, captivating both kids and adults alike.

The best place to dive into Irish magical tales—and perhaps even spot a leprechaun—is at the National Leprechaun Museum. This museum offers a fun, immersive way to explore Irish culture, weaving together legends and lore. And after your visit, keep your eyes open… you never know when you might stumble upon one of these mischievous little fellows!

Stroll through Dublin’s parks

Dublin is home to several parks located right in the city centre, offering a peaceful escape without the need to venture to the outskirts. Saint Stephen’s Green is one of the most central, where you can enjoy a scenic stroll past swan-filled lakes, waterfalls, and colourful gardens. It's a great spot for a family picnic or letting the kids enjoy the playgrounds.

Another must-visit is Merrion Square Park, where you’ll be treated to views of some of Dublin’s most iconic buildings, including the Senate, the National Gallery, the National Museum of Archaeology, and the Natural History Museum. The park is also home to a statue of famed writer Oscar Wilde, who was born nearby.

A bit farther out is Phoenix Park, the largest of the three—and in fact, the largest enclosed park in Europe. A visit here is a full experience, with vast woodlands, rolling fields, beautifully landscaped gardens, picnic areas, free-roaming deer, and the River Liffey, which crosses through Dublin’s city centre. For animal lovers, Phoenix Park is also home to Dublin Zoo, Ireland’s largest zoo, where you can see wildlife from the African plains to the Arctic tundra.

Day trip to Cliffs of Moher

If there’s one must-do excursion from Dublin, it’s a trip to the Cliffs of Moher. Just a three-hour drive by car, the journey is well worth every moment. This adventure is perfect for family members of all ages to enjoy together.

The Cliffs of Moher offer (probably) one of the best views in Europe, that will leave a lasting impression for years to come. Beyond the cliffs, the region is rich with castles, caves, hiking trails, and Celtic villages that still preserve their ancient traditions—ensuring a variety of activities for everyone to explore.

Tips for travelling to Dublin with children

Planning a trip with kids requires a bit of extra thought to ensure everyone enjoys the experience. Here are some helpful tips to make your family adventure in Dublin as smooth as possible:

Involve your kids while creating the itinerary

When mapping out your itinerary, be sure to include your children in the decision-making process. Their opinions, often overlooked, can be key to a successful trip. After all, happy kids make for happy travellers! Dublin offers a wide variety of activities, from outdoor adventures and entertainment to moments of relaxation and cultural experiences, ensuring something for everyone.

Required documents

Make sure that all necessary documents for your children are in order well before your trip. From passports to health cards, having everything prepared will save you a lot of stress later. Double-check the required documents for entering Ireland and carry both identification and health documents for peace of mind.

Keep them entertained on the road

Whether you're driving around Dublin or heading out to the Cliffs of Moher, long journeys can be challenging for kids. Pack electronic devices, travel-friendly games, books, and plenty of snacks to keep them entertained along the way. Having these essentials on hand will help make longer drives more enjoyable for everyone.

Hire a car in Dublin

Hiring a car in Dublin is one of the best decisions when travelling with children. It allows you to tailor your itinerary to their needs, making stops whenever necessary for rest, food, or a bit of sightseeing. Whether you're exploring Dublin's top attractions or venturing further afield, a rental car provides the comfort and flexibility that families need for a stress-free adventure.

Find the best car hire deals in Dublin

Make your family trip to Dublin unforgettable with CarJet. We help you find the lowest car rental prices in real-time by comparing offers from top companies. Whether you need a big vehicle for the whole family, prefer an automatic car, or require child safety seats, CarJet’s filters ensure you’ll find the perfect car for your needs. Enjoy peace of mind and make the most of your Irish trip with CarJet, where we make family travel simple and stress-free.