Dublin City University

Photo by Caroline @ Native Wanderer


Situated on the north side of Dublin, Dublin City University is close to Dublin Bay and the River Liffey and is home to some of Ireland’s largest performance spaces. It is a justifiably popular point of interest for visitors travelling to Ireland’s bustling capital.

The university was built in 1975 and currently has around 12,000 students. It gained university status in 1989 and was designated as a Changemaker Campus by Ashoka U for its work in social innovation. The early focus of Dublin City University was on science and technology and it has a large business school with a heavy focus on entrepreneurship.

Among its graduates are famous Irish comedian Ardal O’Hanlon and journalist Mark Little. The institution is also consistently ranked in the top 50 universities in the world.

The campus spreads over 85 acres and includes several theatres, cafes, restaurants and bars. The Helix Theatre is a popular venue for gigs, plays and dance performances and has three stages: the Mahony Hall, the Theatre and the Space. The Mahony Hall is Ireland’s largest concert hall and seats 1,260 over two floors.

The Helix has hosted world-class performances, including the St. Petersburg Ballet, the Russian State Philharmonic Orchestra and several hit West End shows.

Visit Dublin City University and enjoy the natural beauty of its surroundings before settling down to enjoy world-renowned performances in one of its plush, spacious theatres.

Tours & day trips

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Popular places to visit


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FlyOver Bed and Breakfast

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Large Luxury Architect Designed House, Sleeps 15. City 15 mins by bus.

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Aspen House

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Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Dublin City University

While visiting Dublin City University, immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture by exploring the stunning botanic gardens and indulging in delightful banquet dinners. For those seeking excitement, partake in various sports and perhaps catch a football match. Additionally, experience the local art scene, offering a glimpse into the creative spirit of Dublin. There’s something for everyone to enjoy in this lively university setting.

Shopping

Omni Park Shopping Centre, located 1.3km from Dublin City University, offers a vibrant mix of entertainment and family-friendly options. Just 4.8km away, Jervis Shopping Centre and the Brown Thomas Flagship Store provide a delightful shopping experience with a bustling city atmosphere.

Recreation

Croke Park is a vibrant sports stadium offering the thrill of live games and events, just 3.2km from Dublin City University. The 3Arena, located 4.8km away, hosts an array of music concerts, perfect for entertainment enthusiasts. Lastly, the National Aquatic Centre, 8.0km away, is a family-friendly venue for swimming and leisure activities.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of Clara Lara Fun Park's zipline and ropes course, located 4.8km from Dublin City University, perfect for outdoor adventure enthusiasts. Alternatively, Awesome Walls Climbing Centre offers an exciting climbing experience, also 4.8km away, while Funtasia Waterpark, 35.4km distant, provides fun-filled family entertainment.

Nightlife

In Dublin City University, the vibrant nightlife features cultural gems like the Gate Theatre, Ambassador Theatre, and SFX City Theatre, all within 3.2km. Each venue offers a unique blend of romance and entertainment, perfect for families and night owls alike, ensuring a delightful evening out.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Dublin City University

At Dublin City University, visitors can immerse themselves in a rich tapestry of culture and history. Explore local attractions such as charming streets and historic colleges, or venture to nearby castles for a taste of Ireland's storied past. The area offers a variety of experiences for families and cultural enthusiasts alike, making it an ideal destination for anyone looking to discover the vibrant heart of Dublin.

  • Trinity College: Immerse yourself in the rich history of Ireland at Trinity College, home to the stunning Book of Kells. Explore its beautiful cobblestone campus and experience the vibrant cultural atmosphere that resonates throughout this esteemed institution.
  • O'Connell Street: Stroll along O'Connell Street, the heart of Dublin, where you can admire its impressive monuments and lively atmosphere. This bustling thoroughfare is perfect for shopping, dining, and soaking up the vibrant city vibes.
  • Dublin Castle: Discover the enchanting Dublin Castle, a symbol of Ireland's history and culture. Wander through its beautiful gardens and historic rooms, and feel the romance of this iconic landmark that has witnessed centuries of Irish heritage.

Best time to go to Dublin City University

The best time to visit Dublin City University is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January41.9°F (5.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
February42.6°F (5.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly Low
March43.9°F (6.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
April46.8°F (8.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
May51.4°F (10.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
June56.3°F (13.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
July59.2°F (15.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
August58.6°F (14.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
September55.9°F (13.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
October52.3°F (11.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
November46.8°F (8.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
December43.5°F (6.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Dublin City University

To save money during your visit to Dublin City University, consider travelling between December and February when accommodation prices are lower. Book your hotel one month in advance or explore last-minute deals on Expedia, particularly on Tuesdays for the best rates. Utilise the search tool to find eco-friendly options and sort by price. Combine your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings. For affordable transport, use Dublin’s efficient public transport system or enjoy walking around the city to soak in the sights without spending. Look out for cancellation options to maintain flexibility.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Dublin City University are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to June and September, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Dublin City University is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Dublin City University is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Dublin City University is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and ideal type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel reservation at Dublin City University with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

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