27 Hidden Gems In Dublin, Ireland

Q: What is the most famous thing in Dublin?

The most famous thing in Dublin — and the most visited tourist attraction in all of Ireland — is the Guinness Storehouse.

Looking for hidden gems in Dublin? You are in the right place! In this guide we'll go over secret spots in Dublin that the locals don't want you to know about.

Dublin is full of nooks and crannies that hide the unique. After exploring this charming city, I can across my fair share of hidden gems. This guide has off the beaten path streets, pubs, museums, hotels, coffee shops, and sights in Dublin. Read on to discover 27 of the coolest hidden gems in Dublin, Ireland!

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Hidden Gems In Dublin

Secret Coffee Shops In Dublin

The Cake Cafe

The Cake Cafe is a charming little coffee shop in Dublin's Saint Kevin's Neighborhood. It is situated behind the equally as charming Last Book Shop (which makes for the perfect afternoon reading and coffee). Anyway, the Cake Cafe is tucked away from the busy street and serves amazing coffee, brunch, and, of course, cake!

Vice

Vice doubles as a bar and a coffee shop. The coffee shop is located in the back area of the bar. This coffee shop/bar is located in North City. Vice is great if you are looking to try Irish Coffee!

Kaph

Kaph is a little hole in the wall coffee shop located in the city center. There is minimal seating and the place is tiny. They serve amazing coffee, macha, teas, and baked goods!

Hidden Gem Hotels In Dublin

Stauntons on the Green

Stauntons on the Green - Located just outside the beautiful St. Stephens Green, Stauntons on the Green is a beautiful boutique hotel perfect for anyone in search of a charming stay in Dublin. Each room is beautifully appointed and fully embodies Dublin.

Number 31

Number 31 - Number 31 is a beautiful hidden gem hotel also located in the St. Stephen's Green neighborhood. This hotel is a boutique townhouse. You will find luxe fabrics, statement lighting, jazz themed artwork, and polished finishes at Number 31.

The Leinster

The Leinster - The Leinster is a beautiful & hidden hotel right near Trinity College. What I loved about this charming hotel was the quality and attention to detail in every part of it. The Leinster is luxurious and off the beaten path.

Weird Museums In Dublin

The Little Museum Of Dublin

I seriously dont get how the Little Museum of Dublin isn't more popular. Everything in the hotel is unique and close to the city of Dublin. Some of the coolest things I saw in the Little Museum was Bono's Sunglasses and James Joyce’s death mask (which was a little weird, but still faciniting). If you are looking to learn more about Dublin's culture - this is the place to go!

Dublinia

The Dublinia is such a unique and cool museum. This museum located in the Christchurch neighborhood is all about medieval & viking times in Dublin. In the museum you will find an original Medieval tower, a Viking exhibition, a Medieval exhibition, and more.

Hidden Gem Pubs In Dublin

The Hacienda Bar

The Hacienda Bar is the definition of a hidden gem. No sign, the door is kept locked at all times, and you must ring to get in. If the owner, likes the looks of you (quiet and not in a large group), you will be welcomed inside.

The Glimmer Man

The Glimmer Man is not as hidden as Hacienda, but it is certainly off the beaten path. The local pub is quirky, fun, and off the radar of tourists. It's cash only!!

Dublin Hidden Gem Restaurants

Assassination Custard

The Assassination Custard is the most secret restaurant in Dublin. Tiny, no website, no reservations. Just two chefs making creative Mediterranean dishes with seasonal Irish produce.

The Fish Shop

The Fish Shop is an elegant fish & chips restaurant located in the Stoneybatter neighborhood. At the Fish Shop you will find amazing seafood paired with wines.

Musashi

If you are looking for an off the beaten path Japanese restaurant in Dublin - Musashi is it.

Dublin Hidden Speakeasy

The Blind Pig

The Blind Pig is a speakeasy in the Trinity College area that fully embodies secrecy - it's part of the fun for them. The underground cocktail bar has live music every night and amazing drinks.

Bar 1661

Bar 1661 is unique, cool, and loved by locals! They are known for their use of poitín so be sure to try the Belfast coffee while at Bar 1661.

Dublin Hidden Gems Tours

Dublin Hidden Gems Walking Tour

Dublin Hidden Gems Walking Tour - If you are looking for hidden gems in Dublin, this is the best tour for you! On this hidden gems walking tour you will walk to unique spots in Dublin (along with some popular sights) with a local.

Secret Food Tour Dublin

Secret Food Tour Dublin - On this secret food tour of Dublin you will visit authentic pubs, local eateries, cafes, and markets with a local.

Dublin's Best Kept Secrets Tour

Dublin's Best Kept Secrets Tour - Similar to the Dublin hidden gems tour, but a bit longer and more secret spots! This tour is less popular, so it may be a bit more authentic.

Dublin Coastal Hike, Pints & Puppies Adventure

Dublin Coastal Hike, Pints & Puppies Adventure - This was probably the most unique and different tour I did while in Ireland. It was beautifully random and so fun - If you have an extra day in Ireland - do this tour.

Hidden Spots In Dublin

Marsh's Library

Marsh's Library is a must visit in Dublin. I mean, who doesn't love a hidden library. Marsh's Library is straight out of a movie. It is the first public library in Ireland and was built in the 18th century. If you want to avoid the crowds at the Trinity Library, Marsh's Library is a great alternative.

Henrietta Street

Henrietta Street is like stepping back in time. It has the most well preserved collection of 18th century houses in Ireland. It truly is a beautiful street - if you are a photographer you don't want to miss it!

The Secret Book and Record Store

The Secret Book and Record Store is a true hidden gem. Located at the end of a long hallway off a busy road sits the eclectic book & record store.

The Clockmakers' Museum

The Clockmakers’ Museum in Dublin is home to the oldest clock collection in the world. While I didn't get the chance to visit the Clockmakers Museum, it was recommended enough that it thought it deserves a spot on this list. It really does look interesting - I will have to visit next time i'm in Dublin. I'll report back!

Flower Stall On Grafton Street

Chances are if you are visiting Dublin, you will be going to the iconic Grafton Street, and if you are going to Grafton Street, you can't miss the flower stalls. There is usually at least one, so keep an eye out.

Cool Day Trips From Dublin

Howth

Howth is a charming fishing village a short train rides away from Dublin. If you love quiet seaside villages, hiking, and adorable b&b's Howth is a great day trip (or overnight option from Dublin). Read our Howth guide here.

Trim Castle

Trim Castle is definitely worth a visit from Dublin. I mean who doesn't want to explore a 12th century castle? Trim Castle is worth visiting because it is one of the best well preserved castles in Ireland. The best way to visit is by driving or doing a tour (I did this one and loved it).

Glendalough

Glendalough in Wicklow Mountains is a magical escape where ancient monastic ruins meet forested trails and glacial lakes. Founded in the 6th century by St. Kevin, this “Valley of the Two Lakes” offers both a deep sense of peace and endless opportunities for exploration. While Glendalough is well known to locals and pilgrims, its early-morning misty trails, tucked-away ruins, and silent lakes make it feel like a true hidden gem - especially if you wander beyond the main paths. The best way to go is by renting a car and driving or doing a tour (I did this one).

Top 10 Things To Do In Dublin

Ireland is such a beautiful country, and Dublin is the gateway to it. These are our top 10 things to do in Dublin! For more on Dublin - check out our complete guide here.

Hidden Gems In Dublin FAQs:

What to do in Dublin unique?

There are so many unique and interesting things to do in Dublin! So of the most unique things to do n Dublin include Marsh's Library, The Cake Shop, and Hacienda Bar.

What is the cute town outside Dublin?

A cute town outside of Dublin is Howth - perfect for nature lovers or a day trip from Dublin.

What is the most famous thing in Dublin?

The most famous thing in Dublin (and most visited tourist attraction in all of Ireland) is Guinness Storehouse.

Hidden Gems In Dublin Wrap Up

There are so many hidden gems in the great city of Dublin. We hope that this guide to Dublin's secret spots helps you plan the perfect trip to the Irish capital. If you liked this post we think you may like our Ultimate Guide To Dublin, Best Coffee In Dublin, A Minimalist Dublin Fall Packing List, and our 4 day Ireland Itinerary.

Happy Travels,

Daisy