Exploring Dublin During an Overnight Layover
An Overnight Layover in Dublin
Traveling home from Europe, I always try to incorporate an overnight layover to break up the long journey and experience a bonus city. On my recent return from Hungary, Romania, Czechia, and Slovakia, I booked a flight through Dublin, which included a layover.
Arriving in Dublin at 2:00 PM on Aer Lingus, I had ample time to explore the city before my early morning departure to Chicago the following day. I checked my bags at the airport and ventured into Dublin, eager to experience its unique charm.
The combination of a well-rested flight home and the opportunity to see a new city made my overnight layover in Dublin a highlight of my trip. Plus, with pre-clearance in Dublin, the process was seamless and stress-free, allowing me to enjoy my flight exploring without worrying about customs upon my return to the United States.
An Overnight Layover in Dublin - Exploring the City - Table of Contents
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Arriving in Dublin - Navigating the Airport and Getting to the City Centre
Clearing Passport Control - Dublin International Airport
Dublin Airport, despite its size, was surprisingly efficient. As my bag was checked through to Chicago, I bypassed baggage claim and headed straight for passport control. The line moved quickly, and the border agent was friendly and efficient, asking only about the duration of my stay.
Ground Transportation Options - Dublin Airport to Dublin City Centre
After breezing through customs, I followed the signs to ground transportation. The options were plentiful, ranging from taxis to public buses. Opting for convenience, I booked a round-trip ticket with Dublin Express for €16.
Private Transfer Options - Dublin Airport to City Centre Hotels
For those who want a private transfer, I have linked a few options below. Please note that I am an affiliate of Viator. If you purchase a transfer using one of my links, I will receive a small commission. This commission is at no additional cost to you.
 Private Transport from Dublin Airport to Dublin City - $67.52 We offer private transportation services, for up to 4 people, booking in advance required, can cover nationwide. Professional driver , your safety is important. |
 Dublin Private Transfer from Dublin Airport to Accommodations - $100.15 Arrive at Dublin Airport without the hassle of lugging around your baggage and waiting for a taxi. Simply meet your driver in the arrivals hall, and relax on the journey to your downtown Dublin hotel. The private vehicles can be booked for your personal group of family, friends, or co-workers, and seat a maximum of eight people. Your driver will track your flight to adjust your pickup time, as needed. Secure your Dublin arrival transfer in advance with easy online booking Avoid standing in the taxi lines outside Dublin Airport when you land Relax and use complimentary Wi-Fi to catch up with work as you travel Enjoy climate-controlled transport direct to your Dublin accommodation. |
 Private Transport Services Dublin Airport-City Centre; Private Tours on request - $72.27 We provide excellent service by offering you a new vehicle that can accommodate from one to six people. The vehicle is also wheelchair accessible and pet friendly. |
The Dublin Express - Dublin Airport to City Centre
The Dublin Express was comfortable and efficient, offering a glimpse of the city as we traveled towards the city center. As the bus approached the Georges Quay Bus Stop, I couldn’t help but be impressed by the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
Arriving at the Dublin City Centre
The buildings were a mix of historic architecture and modern design, and the streets were bustling with activity. The air was filled with the sounds of laughter, conversation, and the distant clanging of bells.
Stepping off the bus, I was immediately struck by the beauty of the city. The River Liffey flowed gracefully through the heart of Dublin, reflecting the colorful buildings and bustling streets. I couldn’t wait to explore this charming city and soak up its unique atmosphere.
Walking Around Dublin - What To See During a Long Layover
A Riverfront Stroll: Walking Along the River Liffey
My hotel was conveniently located within a five-minute walk of Georges Quay, making it the perfect base for my layover exploration. Eager to immerse myself in the city, I embarked on a circular walk along the River Liffey.
Zigzagging the River Liffey Bridges During a Long Layover
Starting at the Custom House, I followed the river’s eastern bank towards the Tom Clarke Bridge, taking detours to admire the Talbot Memorial Bridge, Sean O’Casey Bridge, and Samuel Beckett Bridge.
Sights Along the River Liffey
Along the way, I couldn’t resist capturing photos of the iconic Jeanie Johnston, a replica of a 19th-century famine ship, and several statues, including the Linesman and Admiral Brown.
A Glimpse of Trinity College: A Historic Campus
After completing the river loop, I continued my walk towards the historic Trinity College. Entering through the historic entrance next to the Edmund Burke Statue, I was disappointed to find the Campanile under construction.
Trinity College's Parliament Square
However, I was able to explore Parliament Square, a peaceful oasis just inside the main entrance.
Trinity College's Library Square
The famous Trinity College Library, located in Library Square, was a must-see. Although I didn’t have time for the Book of Kells Experience, I admired the library’s impressive exterior.
Grafton Street and Byound: Shopping and Dining
Leaving Trinity College, I ventured towards Grafton Street, a pedestrian-only street lined with shops, restaurants, and pubs.
An Irish Dinner
I enjoyed browsing through the souvenir shops and indulging in a delicious dinner.
Exploring the Pubs and Taverns of Dublin
While not a fan of alcohol, I couldn’t resist capturing the unique architecture and atmosphere of Dublin’s many pubs.The Hairy Lemon, Bull & Castle, Port House, and J. Sheehan’s were my favorites, each with its own distinctive charm.
Returning to the River Liffey: Sunset and Sights
Continuing my walk, I followed the River Liffey back towards Georges Quay. Along the way, I stopped at the Ha’penny Bridge to admire the stunning sunset over the city.
The Butt Bridge
I also captured a photo of the “Butt Bridge,” a quirky structure that I knew my five-year-old nephew would find amusing.
An Inspirational Message
As I returned to the Custom House, darkness had fallen. Although I hadn’t seen everything Dublin had to offer, I felt satisfied with my exploration and grateful for the opportunity to experience this vibrant city during my layover. Next to my hotel, someone had written an inspirational message. I couldn’t help but think how true this message was.
Dublin Sightseeing Tours and Packages
During a long layover in Dublin, it would be difficult to take a tour. The reason is that many of the tours depart early in the morning. My flight didn’t arrive until mid-afternoon, making a tour almost impossible.
If your long layover in Dublin allows for it, a tour is a great way to see Dublin. I have linked a few tours below that caught my eye. Please note that I am an affiliate of Viator. If you purchase a tour using one of my links, I will receive a small commission. This commission is at no additional cost to you.
 Original Dublin Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems - $24.46 We love Dublin and we love showing people around Dublin; the city who's long and illustrious story we are proud to be part of. |
 Dublin Food Tour with a Local Foodie, Personalized & Private - $208.75 Personalised and private experience with a Local Host. With such friendly locals, the freshest ingredients that have come straight out of the Irish sea and Dublin's surrounding countryside and incredible craft beers and local ales, a food and drink crawl in Dublin will be one to remember! Eat and drink your way around the city with a Local Host who is passionate about sharing the very of Irish cuisine with you - you'll soon discover there's more to Dublin's food scene than you might have thought! |
 The Best Of Dublin Walking Tour - $250.94 Discover the best of Dublin! Why the city was named (Dubh Linn) "black pool"? How were vikings related to it? Enjoy intriguing architecture, history, events, and stories right back to its Viking and medieval origins. Dublin has so many great locations, each with its own fascinating tale. During this tour, we will also skirt past many obscure places that will either leave a smile on your face or come as a complete surprise. |
 Dublin Street Art Walking Tour - $22.51 Dublin has lots of amazing street art across the city but it's hard to find.. We created this tour to show you some of the best pieces across the city. |
 City Sightseeing Dublin Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour - $32.63 Explore Dublin in your own time with a 24, 48 or 72 hour unlimited hop-on hop-off bus tour! You’ll discover everything this wonderful city has to offer, including the Guinness Storehouse, Ha’penny Bridge, Dublin Zoo, Christchurch Cathedral, The Irish Whiskey Museum, City Hall and many other remarkable landmarks! You’ll see all of these sights from the open-top deck, which gives you a stunning 360 degree perspective of your surroundings. Or simply hop off the double-decker bus whenever you please, to take a closer look at things. There’s also an on-board audio tour commentary provided in 10 languages, so you can engage with Dublin’s history as you cruise around. This tour has many perks, including discounted entry at the Irish Whiskey Museum and a free walking tour, making your sightseeing experience even more immersive & 2 Kids go free with every paying adult! |
 The Fantastic Walking Tour of Dublin - $184.19 Welcome to the great old city of Dublin! Now, this is the tour for seeing Dublin. If you only do one touristy activity in Dublin, make it the Fantastic Walking Tour of Dublin. |
Returning to Dublin International Airport
The most challenging part of my layover was the early morning wake-up call for my 5 AM flight. However, the convenience of pre-clearance at Dublin International Airport made the early departure worthwhile.
To return to the airport, I once again used Dublin Express. While I had researched the pick-up locations beforehand, I still had to chase after the bus as I wasn’t at the exact stop. Arriving at the airport with plenty of time to spare, I was able to relax and enjoy the pre-clearance process, which was significantly faster thanks to my Global Entry membership. The only long wait was for the entrance to gates 407-426 to open. These are the gates for flights to the United States, and they did not open until around one hour before my flight was set to board.
Overall, my overnight layover in Dublin was a fantastic experience. The city’s charm, convenience of pre-clearance, and efficient transportation made it a memorable part of my trip.
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