Dublin City Guide for Students 2025
New to Dublin? The Irish Capital, Dublin, is not just a bustling city but also a vibrant one filled with opportunities for students to explore and learn.
For international students taking a semester abroad or diving into their full-fledged university journey, Dublin has something for everyone.
From the most prominent landmarks to budget-friendly eateries offering student discounts, here's how you can make the most of your Dublin student life.
Getting Around Dublin Like a Pro
With developed infrastructure and plenty of transportation, navigating Dublin is easy once you know your options.
Here are some ways to get from your student accommodation in Dublin to anywhere you want:
• Walking
With a compact city centre, Dublin is one of the most walkable cities in the world. From Trinity College to Temple Bar, most iconic tourist attractions are within a barely 20-30 minute walk. Walking isn't just free but it also helps you discover hidden gems!
• Buses and Trams
• Dublin Bus: With a well-structured and massive bus network, buses are your go-to while travelling to areas that are outside the city centre. You can get a Leap Card for discounted bus fares as well.
• LUAS Trams: Dublin also has very efficient tram red and green lines. The trams are perfect if you are navigating popular routes, like Dundrum or Connolly Station in Dublin.
• Cycling
A well-developed cyclist-friendly infrastructure makes cycling fun and eco-friendly around Dublin. The Dublin Bikes rental service offers rental plans for students at affordable prices while bike lanes ensure safety while commuting.
Eating on a Student Budget
Exploring Dublin on a student budget is possible and so is eating out while doing so! Here are our top three budget-friendly places to grab a bite:
• Boojum
In the mood for a filling meal? Boojum can be your go-to burrito bar. Affordable, satisfying, and located across the city, it's a great choice for students exploring Dublin.
So, go get fuelled up for the day without breaking your student bank account!
• Umi Falafel
If you are looking for something fresh and healthy to snack on, Umi Falafel serves up a range of delicious Middle Eastern dishes, from filling falafel wraps to tasty fresh salads.
This can be a pocket-friendly option that doesn't compromise on flavor.
• The Hungry Mexican
The Hungry Mexican is the perfect option for casual hangouts and some good times.
The portions are generous for reasonable prices which make it a great choice for students who love tacos, nachos, and everything Mexican.
Pro Tip: make sure you are carrying your student ID! Cafes and restaurants in Dublin often offer exclusive student discounts on food. Make sure you don't miss out on saving that extra money.
Study Spots and Chill Zones
As a student, it is important to balance work and play. Here is our list of great spots where you can study or simply unwind:
• Dublin City Library & Archive: A well-equipped, quiet space for studying. You have plenty of resources at hand and can focus better in a noise-free environment!
• The Fumbally Stables: A cozy cafe with a relaxed atmosphere. It's perfect for working on your assignments or brainstorming project ideas with colleagues over a cup of coffee.
• St. Stephen's Green: If you need a break from screens and to reconnect with nature, try this peaceful park right at the city center. The park with its glorious greenery is an excellent spot for reading, relaxing, or just enjoying a sunny day picnic.
Top Spots Every Student Should Visit
From old museums and libraries to beautiful parks and streets, Dublin has a list of iconic spots to explore. Here are some suggestions:
• Trinity College & The Long Room Library
The first on the list is one of Dublin's most celebrated landmarks. Trinity College's Long Room Library is a paradise for people who like books and history.
The centuries-old wooden shelves, rare manuscripts, and a wide collection of books make it a great attraction for travelers across the globe.
• Phoenix Park
Phoenix Park is one of the largest enclosed parks in Europe and a perfect escape if you want a break from studies.
It's especially a great place for a jog, a picnic, or even some wildlife spotting as the park is also home to herds of wild deer.
Make sure to visit the Dublin Zoo or just soak in the lush greenery of the area!
• Temple Bar District
This iconic and must-visit area of Dublin is famous for its cobblestone streets, a very vibrant atmosphere, and cultural offerings.
Famous for its nightlife, Temple Bar also has plenty to offer during the day; make sure to explore the art galleries and quirky shops.
The heartbeat of Dublin's rich creative culture, Temple Bar is surely an Instagram-worthy spot for your student adventures.
• Bonus Spots for Adventures
If you are someone with a knack for adventure and like digging deeper than most tourists, here are some bonus spots to explore:
• Howth Cliff Walk: A scenic coastal trail with breathtaking views of Dublin Bay to make your weekends more adventurous.
• Kilmainham Gaol: If you are a history enthusiast, take a deep dive into Ireland's history at this prison-turned-museum.
• Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA): A haven for art lovers looking for inspiration and insight into contemporary artists and their works.
Conclusion
Dublin is a great city, be it for students, working professionals, or tourists. From the most celebrated landmarks to the most fun leisure activities, Dublin has a lot to offer to everyone.
So, if you are an international student studying in Dublin and living in a student accommodation, make sure to explore the city as much as possible and create some long-lasting memories!
How Can Amber Help You?
amber helps you secure student accommodation of your choice on your study abroad journey. Having served 80 million students (and counting), amber is your one-stop shop for all your accommodation needs. Download the Amber app from the Google Play or App Store to book an affordable home for your adventure.
Author's Bio
Urza (She/They) is an avid reader and equally passionate writer. You can find her nerding out about anything and everything, especially art, music, politics, geology, and much more. She likes to create art, cook, or collect crystals when she is not writing or reading.