Temple Bar is one of Dublin’s most famous places to go, found perfectly perched on the River Liffey and bound by Dame Street, Westmoreland Street and Fishamble Street. So much more than just a tourist destination, the neighbourhood is hailed as the city’s cultural quarter and is a bubbling hub of shops, bars and restaurants. To help you get to know the area a little better, we’ve found some of the best things to do near Temple Bar, from impressive brunching to speakeasy cocktail sipping.
Visit the iconic The Temple Bar
First and foremost, a trip to The Temple Bar pub is essential. Having been around since 1840, this classic Dublin boozer has seen its fair share of history, which is reflected in its old school ambience. If you want the full experience? Pay them a visit for a night of traditional Irish music, take your pick of unique whiskies from their extensive collection and munch on what they say is the world's largest selection of sandwiches.
This iconic Irish pub is an essential place to visit near Temple Bar.
Catch Irish dancers at The Old Storehouse
Not content with just being a charming pub near Temple Bar, The Old Storehouse keeps its guests coming back time and time again with a packed event schedule. That's not all though, as the venue even hosts Irish dancing every Friday and Saturday. Catch some of the city’s finest professionals showing off their moves and have a crack at it from the comfort of your own seat, with plenty of delicious food and drink to keep you fuelled.
Traditional dancing, stout and whiskey? It doesn't get more Irish than that.
Sip speakeasy-style cocktails at Vintage Cocktail Club
Vintage Cocktail Club is the epitome of 1920s chic; think unique trinkets, antique furniture, a roaring fire and beautiful art lining its four walls. Located behind an unassuming black door marked only with the lettering VCC, the bar is recognised as one of the best cocktail joints in the country and is famed for its multi-award winning experience. Make sure to ring their doorbell for a few illicit sips when you’re looking for things to do in Dublin.
This cosy cocktail den is a quirky place to drink near Temple Bar.
Relax on the roof terrace at Bad Bobs Temple Bar
You may know Bad Bobs for its live music nights, raucous club events and multiple bar spaces, but did you know this multifaceted venue also has an unmissable rooftop? Regardless of the weather, this is a fun thing to do in Temple Bar for its dedicated bar, seating area and a retractable roof (which can be closed if the heavens open). Pull up a chair, order a round of signature cocktails and get stuck into their famous sharing platters for one alfresco treat.
Bad Bobs' rooftop is a great spot for cocktails and pub grub any time of the year.
Soak up stouts at Porterhouse Temple Bar
Are you a craft beer fan looking for something to do in Temple Bar? You’ll simply have to check out Porterhouse, Dublin’s first brewpub which opened in 1996. Offering the largest selection of world beers in Ireland, alongside live music and an ample menu of pub grub, this is easily a go-to for drinking and dining in the area. To get the most out of your visit, make sure to try the award-winning Plain Porter, which they say is the best stout on the planet.
Take your pick of freshly poured pints from Porterhouse Temple Bar.
Chomp famous fish ‘n’ chips at Leo Burdock
Leo Burdock fish and chip shop is legendary in Dublin, so of course this is an essential place to go when you visit the city centre. Since its opening in 1913, the chippie has welcomed many a famous face, including Tom Cruise, Bruce Springsteen and U2. Make sure to try out their traditional fresh cod, also known as the ‘Dubliners caviar’, chips topped with salt and Leo’s vinegar, mushy peas and maybe even a battered sausage if you want to go all-out.
What we'd give for a big ol' plate of Leo Burdock's fish and chips right now...
Satisfy your sweet tooth at Queen of Tarts
Another gem in the city's foodie crown, Queen of Tarts is an essential visit if your list of things to do in Dublin includes indulging your sweet tooth. This Dame Street staple dates back to 1998, with fresh ingredients art the core of every recipe. So curl up with a freshly brewed coffee and get stuck into their menu of crumble with Irish Bramley apples, fudge cake with Belgian chocolate and buttermilk bread.
Get your fix of sugary sweet treats and savoury bites at Queen of Tarts.
Brunch in a bank at The Bank on College Green
Has all that exploring around Temple Bar given you a craving for a well-earned brunch? There are fewer spots as iconic as The Bank on College Green, where you can stuff your chops in, you guessed it, a refurbished bank. The stunning space comes complete with all its original features including a stained glass ceiling, mosaic tiled floors and hand-carved plasterwork. There’s even vaults downstairs to check out after your meal...
The Bank is has plenty of wow-factor to add to your dining experience in Dublin.
Looking for more Dublin ideas? Explore our guide to things to do near Grafton Street here.
