The Emerald Isle really is an incredible country. With novel-worthy locations, comfort food, cultural heritage, and some of the most beautifully stunning scenery, it’s the perfect travel location.
Ireland has so much to offer and that also includes free activities. So if you’re looking for quiet libraries, coastal walks, natural wonders, and day adventures to castles, you’re covered.
Your plane tickets were already expensive enough, so if you’re looking for free things to do in Ireland, then scroll and grab a few ideas. You’ll find plenty of budget-friendly activities.
1. Library of Trinity College Dublin
Probably the best spot to get incredible photos and enjoy beautiful architecture.
Also, I feel like this is a great place to step into after a busy day of walking around just so you can take in the quiet, majestic atmosphere.
The Library of Trinity College Dublin is a place where publishers in Ireland need to “deposit a copy of all their publications there without charge.” So that means you’re getting some incredibly famous works like the Book of Kells.
Honestly, a beautiful location with so much history and probably one of the best free things to do in Dublin.
2. The Natural History Museum of Ireland
If you’re in Dublin and want to look back through the ages, then the National History Museum is the place for you (admission is free).
Known by some as the “Dead Zoo”, this specific museum is in fact more fascinating than sinister and a family-friendly way to spend a day without spending any of your money.
3. Dublin Street Art
If you’re staying in Dublin at the moment and in the mood for a wall (and if you know where to look) then this is such a great idea.
Like a lot of cities, Dublin is becoming well known for its street art. There are walking tours available, but with a little bit of research, you can discover a whole range of stunning works for no cost at all.
Honestly, if you’re looking for things to do in Dublin for free that are also low-key, then this is a great option.
4. Causeway Coast Walk
This is probably the most iconic free thing you can do when visiting this country.
Ireland really is famed for its rugged coastline and this particular walk is something special.
It’s pretty long, coming in at 33 miles, and is well worth the hike. And when you’re taking in the stunning scenery at Giant’s Causeway, remember to take photos and maybe pack a lunch on this great outing.
5. Go Monster Spotting in Kilkee
If you happen to find yourself near the beautiful coastal town of Kilkee, in County Clare, you’ll wanna take in the stunning scenery and try to find the Irish version of the Loch Ness Monster.
The horse-shoe bay of this picturesque seaside resort was the location of a reported monster spotting and is a beautiful place to be even if you can’t spot it. 😉
6. Lismore Castle
If you need to have castles on your list of free activities to do in Ireland, then this should be on it.
Lismore Castle’s grounds are incredibly beautiful. You’ll find gorgeous views of the castle towering over the river, gardens, and other pretty spots. It really is a great place to spend the day, explore, and relax.
7. Visit the Titanic Pier in County Cobh
Everybody knows about the Titanic and its tragic story, but to stand on the pier where the last passengers boarded the liner is a truly poignant experience.
Nicknamed the “Heartbreak Pier” by locals, this is more of a quiet reflective experience, but very moving and worthwhile.
8. Footprints Older Than Dinosaurs
Ireland is a very beautiful country and it’s also very old. And this means they have some pre-historic experiences. So if you’re on the Kerry coast (Valentia Island) you‘ll be able to see dinosaur footprints. This is great if you have kids or if you just love that kind of thing!
9. Take the Dublin Double-Decker Buses and Use Their Bikes
Let’s go back to Dublin. Maybe you don’t feel like walking around this city, but you still wanna explore and absorb its wonderful atmosphere. Then you should definitely experience it from the second floor of a double-decker bus.
Or a Bike. Dublin has a fantastic situation that lets you to “rent” a bike FREE of charge for up to thirty minutes at a time. This is a great way of getting around town, and if you download the Dublin Bikes app (also free), you can keep track of your time to make sure you don’t go over.
10. Saint Patrick
The cathedral of Downpatrick is said to be the place where Saint Patrick, the patron Saint of Ireland, is buried. The story of Saint Patrick is inherently important to the Irish and this incredibly beautiful cathedral is as much about history as it is legend.
Grace Moser is the author and founder of Chasing Foxes, where she writes articles to help women create a life they love in big and small ways. She's been a full-time traveler since 2016 and loves sharing her experiences and exploring the world with her husband, Silas. Her lifestyle and travel advice can also be seen on sites such as Business Insider, Glamour, Newsweek, Huffpost, & Apartment Therapy.