Dublin Ireland is a perfect destination for solo trips, especially for women who are traveling alone for the first time. Aside from breathtaking natural landscapes and heritage sites, great pub culture, and warm Irish hospitality, the bustling capital is also known for being one of the safest places for female travelers.
Where to stay, what to do, and how to protect yourself while traveling in Dublin alone? Here are 8 tips every female traveler should keep in mind.
1. Know the best time to visit
What’s the best time to visit the Irish capital? If you want a quieter trip, April and May (spring) are the best times to visit. During this time, the flowers are blooming and the crowds are manageable. But if you want to experience a festive atmosphere in Ireland, visit during St. Patrick’s Day (March 17th) and the Christmas season.
2. Don’t miss these Dublin attractions and experiences
Dublin doesn’t have a signature landmark that says “this is Dublin”, unlike the Eiffel Tower in Paris or the Colosseum of Rome. Dublin, however, introduces itself through remarkable experiences.
Don’t miss these attractions and activities to capture the Dublin spirit.
- Take a selfie along River Liffey and Ha’penny Bridge
- Visit Guinness Storehouse for a uniquely Irish brewery experience
- Feast your eyes on the panoramic views of the city from Gravity Bar while sipping a perfect pint of Guinness
- Take a stroll along Temple Bar to discover quirky boutiques, pubs, restaurants, galleries, and live music performances
- Visit a pub for great meals, drinks, and live traditional Irish music
- Travel back in time by visiting medieval edifices including Dublin Castle, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and Christ Church Cathedral
- See the Trinity College Library, which houses “The Book of Kells”
- Step inside Dublin’s museums and art galleries
- Keep an eye on the quirky, IG-worthy Georgian doors
- Explore the parks, including the Phoenix Park, St. Stephen Green, and National Botanic Garden.
3. Get around with a leap card
It’s easy and cheap to get around Dublin – thanks to the public transport options in the city. The best part is the destinations are well connected by bus, train, and tram.
Get a leap card, which costs €5 and can be topped up on the go with an app on your phone. They can give you discounted fares on all public transport services. You can also use it to sign up for Dublin bikes, if you want to explore the city on two wheels.
4. Save on your accommodation
Hotel accommodation is often the most expensive part of your trip – and lodging in Dublin is no exception. While most travelers look into hostels for cheap accommodation, sharing a dorm might not be for everyone, especially if safety and privacy are major concerns.
The good news is there’s an alternative: an affordable campus accommodation in Dublin. You can find one at Dublin City University (DCU), a cheap university accommodation located in the heart of the city.
5. Dress accordingly
Before packing your travel OOTD, be advised that it’s almost always wet in Ireland. The climate is moist, mild, and changing with abundant rainfalls. January and February are the coldest months of the year. May and June are the sunniest, while July and August are the warmest.
Layering is key. Since it’s more likely to rain, make sure to pack a waterproof jacket, light sweaters, comfy jeans, comfortable shoes that aren’t white, and umbrella. While there are no dress codes, it would be respectful to cover up if you plan to visit churches.
6. Observe safety precautions
Just because there are no catcalling in Dublin and it’s a safe destination for women, doesn’t mean you will let your guard down.
Avoid walking alone at night. Choose busy, lit streets even if the route is longer. You should also remain vigilant around drunk pub goers and overly friendly men approaching in groups. Lastly, keep an eye on your bag especially when you’re in an outdoor cafe or pub.
7. Mind the closing time of the pubs
Pubs in Dublin have the same closing time: 11:30 last call on weeknights and 12:30 last call on weekends. After the closing time, expect the streets to be filled with merry, intoxicated people. While somewhat rare, rucus and fights may occur at this time.
Your safest bet is to head home minutes before the closing time.
8. But don’t hold back
Be cautious but don’t let the fear of “traveling alone as a woman” hold you back. Just get out there and discover the beauty of the city. Try a new delicacy. Drink a pint of the black stuff. Socialize with the friendly locals. Visit as many museums as you can. Take a stroll along the cobblestone streets and allow yourself to get lost. Explore the parts unknown, and just enjoy the adventure.
Author Bio: Carmina Natividad is one of the passionate writers for DCU Rooms, a cheap accommodation in Dublin for frugal travelers who’d love to experience the astonishing beauty of the city on a budget. This travel buff enjoys writing and sharing articles about money-saving hacks on accommodation, airfare, dining, and getting around the city.
