10:30am — Passing Áras an Uachtaráin

After 90 minutes, I headed out and started my mammoth walk from one end of Pheonix Park to the other. On my way back through the park, I passed Áras an Uachtaráin, the official residence of the President of Ireland. It’s not a stop you linger at, but it’s a meaningful landmark and part of the park’s identity. Well worthy of a photo op!

From here, I continued through the park toward the city gates and viewed the monuments that you pass by:

• The Wellington Monument

• The Papal Cross

And yes — early in the morning I managed to see the deer on a number of sightings along the way grazing.

It’s a long walk, but the open space makes it enjoyable rather than tiring. Remember, if needs be you can hire a bike to make it easier (best thing is if you pick the right option you can keep the bike for the day).

11:45am — Culture Stop at the National Museum of Ireland – Decorative Arts & History

It took over an hour to walk it, but after leaving the park I headed straight into the museum at Collins Barracks and this is where Dublin’s story really began to unfold.

Entry is free, which still amazes me.

Inside, I explored:

• Irish military history

• Decorative arts collections

• Political artefacts

• Fascinating social history displays

If you want to understand Ireland beyond the surface, this stop is essential. I spent about an hour here, which felt just right.

There’s also a café inside if you need a coffee before heading into the city centre.

1:00pm — Luas to O'Connell Street

I jumped on the Luas and within minutes was in the heart of Dublin for next to nothing. You could walk, but to save time the Luas is a great shout and the stop is just outside of the museum gates.

O’Connell Street feels grand and historic — wide, busy, and full of significance.

The General Post Office (GPO)

Standing outside the GPO gave me goosebumps. This was the headquarters of the 1916 Easter Rising, Irish History at its best. If you really want to know what happened at this momentous time you could book a tour where the guides are so knowledgeable.

You can step inside to see the architecture or indeed take part in the paid for “GPO Witness History” exhibition, which brings the rebellion to life through immersive displays all for just €15.

If you’re even slightly interested in Irish history, it’s worth it.

1:45pm — Crossing the Ha'penny Bridge into Temple Bar

From O’Connell Street, I walked toward the River Liffey and crossed the Ha’penny Bridge — one of those classic Dublin moments.

Temple Bar is lively, colourful, and full of character. Yes, it’s touristy — but it’s also fun.

I wandered:

• Through cobbled streets

• Into little shops

• Past traditional pubs with music spilling out

Its a great place to walk around, with a great atmosphere and vibe, BUT it is expensive, so if your looking for a free or cheap day, maybe here is not the place to get food or stop for a drink!

2:15pm — Lunch in Temple Bar

Although I have mentioned the price, in general to save money I would head out of Temple Bar, but I was starving after all of the walking around and as such I looked around and found a couple of eateries that didnt break the bank. So after a busy morning, this was the perfect lunch stop for me. Possibly you could do the same, but if not head out to a local enough bar outside of Temple Bar and you will save money.

Some great options along this route:

• The Woollen Mills – Modern Irish dishes with river views from its outdoor terrace. Booking is essential and can be done through the link.

• Gallagher's Boxty House – Traditional Irish comfort food - well priced but in the tourist trap, so maybe book a table to guarantee entry.

Take your time here — this is your recharge moment.

3:15pm — Through Trinity College Dublin

After lunch, I walked toward Trinity College.

The cobbled squares and historic buildings are beautiful. If you want you can book a guided tour to learn about the city centre campus. Instead if you prefer, you can pay to see the Book of Kells and the Long Room Library — a real highlight for many visitors.

Even without a ticket, simply walking through the grounds is worth it.

4:00pm — Down Grafton Street

Grafton Street was buzzing when I arrived — street performers singing, buskers drawing crowds, shoppers everywhere.

If  I hadn't stopped for food already I would definitely have briefly stopped at Bewley's Grafton Street for tea and cake — a little afternoon treat in a historic setting.

4:30pm — Wind Down in St. Stephen's Green

By the time I reached St. Stephen’s Green, my step count was impressive — but I wasn’t exhausted.

I found a bench near the lake and just sat. It was the perfect quiet pause after a full day of exploring.

5:00pm — Back to the Hotel

From here, I headed back to pick up my car, but you’re perfectly positioned to head back to your accommodation, relax, shower, and recharge before heading out for dinner.

If you’re staying centrally, great options along this route include:

• The Shelbourne — Overlooking the Green

• The Morgan Hotel — In the heart of Temple Bar and well priced with a great atmospheric bar and cocktail making classed

• Ashling Hotel — Well priced and near Phoenix Park to make the start of your day easier