3-Day Dublin Itinerary Exploring Popular and Hidden Gems on a Budget

Day 1: Historic & Local Flavours

Dublin, Ireland on June 20, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Brother Hubbard

Enjoy a hearty vegetarian breakfast featuring Middle Eastern inspired dishes with fresh, locally sourced ingredients at this cosy, less touristy café. Opens at 8:00am, popular for vegetarians.
EUR12, 1h0m

9:45am

Visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral

Explore one of Dublin’s iconic landmarks with peaceful gardens and beautiful Gothic architecture, offering a quieter experience in the early morning. Open 9:30am to 5:00pm.
EUR8, 1h15m

11:15am

Walk the Liberties

Discover Dublin’s historic Liberties district, visiting artisan workshops, vintage shops and sampling local crafts. This area is lively but less crowded than central tourist spots.
Free, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Cornucopia

Dublin’s beloved vegetarian restaurant serving healthy, hearty options in a relaxed setting. Perfect for a substantial lunch within budget. Open 12:00pm to 3:00pm.
EUR15, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Marsh’s Library

One of Ireland’s earliest public libraries with stunning 18th-century interiors. It is often overlooked by tourists, offering a serene niche cultural experience. Open 9:00am to 1:00pm and 2:00pm to 5:00pm.
EUR6, 1h0m

4:00pm

Walk along the River Liffey to Ha’penny Bridge

Enjoy a peaceful stroll by the river with fewer crowds later in the afternoon, appreciating historic sightlines and photo opportunities.
Free, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Blazing Salads

A popular deli offering varied vegetarian and vegan meals made from fresh, local produce at affordable prices. Open until 8:00pm.
EUR13, 1h0m

Day 2: Cultural & Historic Northside

Dublin, Ireland on June 21, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Fumbally

Charming café known for its creative vegetarian breakfast dishes, set in a bright, airy space popular among locals but not overrun by tourists. Opens 8:00am.
EUR10, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Chester Beatty Library

An extraordinary collection of manuscripts, prints and artworks from Asia, the Middle East, and Europe; a niche cultural spot offering quiet galleries. Open 9:45am to 5:00pm.
Free, 1h30m

11:15am

Explore Dublin Castle Gardens

Beautiful, peaceful gardens next to the castle with fewer visitors; a great spot for relaxation and historical insight.
Free, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Blas Café & Restaurant

Vegetarian-friendly café showcasing healthy Irish and international dishes with an emphasis on organic ingredients. Open 12:00pm to 3:00pm weekdays.
EUR14, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit The Little Museum of Dublin

Small but fascinating museum telling Dublin’s 20th-century story through quirky exhibits, often less crowded in afternoon hours. Open 9:30am to 5:00pm.
EUR10, 1h0m

3:30pm

Walk along the Royal Canal Greenway

A lesser-known scenic walking path north of the city, perfect for tranquillity and spotting local wildlife.
Free, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Umi Falafel

Casual spot offering authentic Middle Eastern falafel and vegetarian wraps, open until 10:00pm and budget-friendly.
EUR12, 1h0m

Day 3: Coastal & Green Escape

Dublin, Ireland on June 22, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hatch & Sons

Traditional Irish breakfast with good vegetarian options in a quaint, homely atmosphere. Open from 8:00am.
EUR13, 1h0m

9:30am

Walk in Phoenix Park

One of Europe’s largest urban parks; enjoy open green spaces, deer sightings, and the peaceful atmosphere away from the city hustle.
Free, 2h0m

11:45am

Visit Dublin Zoo (optional)

Located within Phoenix Park; a chance to see exotic and native animals if interested. Opens 9:30am to 6:00pm. Entry fee applies.
EUR19, 1h30m

1:30pm

Lunch at Cornucopia (again if desired) or The Happy Pear takeaway for picnic

Enjoy fresh vegetarian food to-go from The Happy Pear and have a picnic in the park for a low-cost, healthy lunch.
EUR12, 1h0m

3:00pm

Visit Howth Village and Cliff Walk

Take a short train trip to Howth, a charming fishing village with stunning cliff walks and seafood markets. Prefer the scenic and less crowded routes for peaceful views.
Train approx EUR6 return, 3h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at The Summit Inn, Howth

Casual pub with vegetarian-friendly international and Irish dishes, perfect for a relaxing meal after a day’s walk. Open until 9:00pm.
EUR18, 1h0m