Dublin Trip Cost Calculator

Your Dublin Budget at a Glance

Dublin has become expensive, but the legendary pub culture, free world-class museums, and walkable city center help manage costs. Budget travelers can manage on $90-150 per day, mid-range travelers should expect $180-320 per day, and luxury seekers will spend $450+ per day.

Where Your Money Goes

Accommodation is Dublin’s biggest expense - the city has a hotel room shortage. Pints add up quickly, especially in Temple Bar. The good news: attractions are often free, and the city is very walkable.

Budget Traveler Tips

Maximize your euros by:

• Staying north of the Liffey (often 20-30% cheaper than south)
• Drinking at local pubs, not Temple Bar (save €2+ per pint)
• Visiting free national museums (among the best in Europe)
• Walking everywhere - Dublin is compact
• Eating pub grub and chipper fish & chips

Worth the Splurge

Even budget travelers should consider:

• Guinness Storehouse (includes a pint with the best views in Dublin)
• One proper traditional music session in a real pub
• Day trip to Howth for coastal walks and fresh seafood

Best Time to Visit for Value

November through February offers the best deals, though weather is cold and wet. Early March (before St. Patrick’s Day) offers shoulder-season value.

Avoid these expensive periods:

• St. Patrick’s Day week (March 17) - prices double, book months ahead
• Summer holidays (June-August)
• Rugby Six Nations weekends
• Major concerts and events

Practical Money Tips

Tipping Culture

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Leave 10-15% at sit-down restaurants if service was good. No need to tip at pubs - just order at the bar.

Paying for Things

Ireland is very card-friendly. Contactless everywhere. Some smaller pubs might prefer cash for rounds. ATMs charge €3.50 for non-Irish cards.

Tap Water

Dublin tap water is excellent. Ask for tap water at restaurants without hesitation. “A glass of water, please” is totally normal.

Getting There & Around

From Dublin Airport

Dublin Airport is 10km north of the city center:

• Airlink 747 Bus: €8 single, €14 return. Every 15-30 min to O’Connell Street
• Dublin Express: €7-9, direct to various city locations
• Taxi: €25-35 to city center. Use FreeNow app
• Aircoach: €7-8 to various hotels and city points

Getting Around

Dublin is very walkable:

• Walking: Most central attractions within 30 minutes of each other
• Luas: Tram system connecting suburbs to center
• Dublin Bus: Extensive network, Leap Card essential
• DART: Scenic coastal train for Howth and Dún Laoghaire day trips
• Dublin Bikes: 30 min free with €5 3-day subscription. Great for flat areas