Exploring a city like Dublin is always an exciting experience. Its unique and compact layout means you can easily move around by foot, taking in a whole host of delights in just one day. That said, there’s always time for a coffee break! Luckily, the capital is home to a wealth of cafés serving up tasty, top-quality tea, coffees and treats. Here’s how to make sure you work in a well-earned rest to your itinerary, no matter which part of Dublin you’re visiting…
Guinness Storehouse
After finding out how the Black Stuff is made, learning to pour the perfect pint, and taking in views from the Storehouse’s fantastic Gravity Bar, you’ll surely be ready for a tasty coffee.
Mannings Bakery, located in Dublin’s historic Liberties neighbourhood, serves up delicious confectionery baked fresh on the premises every morning.
Enjoy some of Dublin’s finest coffee – brewed by a team of experienced baristas – at LEGIT Coffee & Co. on Meath Street, while chomping down on their famous homemade sausage rolls.
Dublin Cookie Company on Thomas Street is a must-visit for those with a sweet tooth. Be sure to sample their white chocolate and cranberry cookies.
Once you’ve enjoyed your fill, why not pop across the Liffey to Dublin’s Northside, where you’ll find plenty more fascinating attractions. History fans should check out the GPO (site of the 1916 Easter Rising) Glasnevin Cemetery, where some of the country’s key figures are buried, and the always compelling James Joyce Centre.
Jameson Distillery
After enjoying a fantastic guided tour of the Old Jameson Distillery in the heart of Smithfield, be sure to go for a wander around this much beloved part of the city. A host of funky cafés have popped up there over the last few years…
Third Space is a café and community hub, regularly hosting social events, live music and art exhibits. This artistic vibe is the perfect companion to a delicious cup of Brazilian brew.
Wuff on Benburb Street maintains the welcoming and homely atmosphere that has made it such a hit with Stoneybatter locals. It’s the perfect place for a coffee and mouth-watering warm waffle, if you’re also keen to chow down some quality post-Guinness munch.
Whipping up delicious gourmet sandwiches and bagels is a speciality at Cinammon Café, all washed down with a generous helping of artisan coffee. If you happen to be in the area between 3:30pm and 5:30pm, you’ll be pleased to know that a coffee will cost you just €1.50.
After your coffee break, be sure to continue exploring Smithfield; at the top of its square is the Cobblestone Pub, where you’ll usually find an Irish trad music session kicking off! The Phoenix Park is close by too – a stroll through this leafy green oasis is always enjoyable, keep an eye out for the many deer who call the park home.
Book of Kells, Trinity College
The idyllic grounds of Trinity College are perfect for an afternoon stroll, while the ancient, vivid and colourful Book of Kells (housed in the college’s Old Library) is an absolute must-see. When you’ve finished exploring, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to nearby cafés.
Fancy a healthy treat with that coffee? The team at Sprout on Dawson Street serve up yummy protein balls, date slices and dairy-free snacks. What’s more, the space is fitted with aromatically scented green herb walls, while potted plants sit on every table.
Taste a little bit of the Mediterranean coast with an inviting cup of imported Italian coffee at Il Caffe di Napoli, Westland Row. Combine your coffee with a traditional Quattro Formaggi and prepare for your taste-buds to be pleasantly surprised.
The Parisian-inspired patisserie Hansel & Gretal Bakery on Clare Street certainly lives up to its name. Not quite built from gingerbread, but still dishing out some delectable baked treats, it’s the perfect place to stop for a coffee and fresh pastry.
Refreshed? You’re smack-bang in the centre of the city, meaning there’s plenty more to see. Nearby highlights include the Little Museum of Dublin — this charming space tells the colourful story of Dublin, from James Joyce to U2. Keep an eye out for the pretty Georgian architecture in this part of the city too.
That’s just a handful of highlights we recommend you visit. From the antique quarter to the contemporary tech hub, hidden gems are just waiting to be explored, and luckily, there are plenty more cafés dotted around the city, should you require a quick caffeine hit! No matter which part of the city you find yourself delving into, here are some barista highlights that you simply must try.