Jet Lag Distractions – What to Do in Ireland that First Day

Exploring Dublin without succumbing to jet lag.

Visiting Ireland can be an exciting experience, but the long flight to Dublin can leave even the most seasoned traveler jet-lagged and disoriented. The time difference, the long flight, and the excitement of being in a new country can all take a toll on your body, leaving you feeling fatigued and groggy. But don’t let jet lag ruin your first day in Ireland!

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There are plenty of distractions and activities to keep you occupied until you’re ready to catch some much-needed rest. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best ways to explore and what to do in Dublin, Ireland, and surrounding areas without succumbing to jet lag.

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Travel Tip: Arrange for an early check-in at your hotel. Even if your room isn’t ready, you can drop your bags and then head out to explore. If you need a hotel recommendation, I recommend being in the Temple Bar or Trinity College areas to be close to top pubs and attractions in Dublin. Last time, I stayed at the Trinity City Hotel and absolutely loved both the amenities and its proximity to everything below.

Visit Trinity College

Trinity College Dublin is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world. The college is located in the heart of the city and is home to some of Ireland’s finest architecture, including the stunning Old Library and the iconic Campanile (bell tower).

You can wander around the campus, take a guided tour, or simply relax in one of the many beautiful parks. A must-see stop is touring the Long Room inside the Old Library, which is home to over 200,000 of the college’s oldest books and manuscripts including the Book of Krells. The Long Room also contains the famous Trinity College Library Harp, which is said to have inspired the emblem of Ireland.

Get Easy Access Tickets for Book of Kells here.

Note: In Fall 2023, the Old Library is undergoing a restoration project. Many of the books inside the Long Room have been removed for digital cataloging and to undergo necessary preservation work. However, the Library will remain open to visitors during this time and the rest of the campus remains fully accessible.

Hit the Museums

Dublin is home to several world-class museums that are perfect for a jet-lagged traveler. The National Museum of Ireland has several branches, including collections dedicated to archaeology, natural history, and decorative arts. You can spend hours exploring the exhibits and learning about Irish culture and history. Other popular museums include the Irish Museum of Modern Art, Hugh Lane Gallery, and the Museum of Literature Ireland (Moli).

Take a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

If you want to explore Dublin at your own pace, a hop-on hop-off bus tour is an excellent option. You can purchase tickets for a full day and the bus will take you to all of Dublin’s top attractions.

You have three options: DoDublin Bus Tours (24 & 48-hour passes also provide complimentary admission to the Little Museum of Dublin), City Sightseeing (24, 48, and 72-hour passes), and Big Bus Tours Dublin (24, 48, or 72-hour passes with optional add-ons like walking tours, city night tour, or scenic coastal tour.

The best part? You can get on and off the bus as many times as you like, so it’s perfect if you need to take a break and rest your tired feet.

Travel Tip: If you want to see multiple attractions in Dublin including the Guinness Storehouse, Malahide Castle, Dublin Castle, and Immigration Museum, plus ride the hop on/off bus, consider getting the GoCity pass. This pass saves you up to 50% off admission fees and saves you time by providing skip-the-line entry to lots of attractions and activities. It’s definitely worth looking into if you’re planning a trip to Dublin!

Eat & Drink Through the City

One of the simple joys of traveling is exploring a new city’s food and drink scene. And Dublin has no shortage of options when it comes to delicious cuisine and beverages. Here are just a few places to add to your list for a culinary adventure in Dublin:

• Temple Bar – This iconic district is known for its vibrant nightlife, but it’s also home to some fantastic restaurants and pubs. You can sample traditional Irish dishes like fish and chips or shepherd’s pie, or try more modern fusion cuisine.
  • The Temple Bar is an iconic Dublin pub known for its lively atmosphere and extensive drink selection. As this is one of the top things to do in Dublin, expect to find it busy all year round. Like many Irish pubs, children are allowed inside where food is served. After 9pm, it’s recommended for adults only.
• Guinness Storehouse – If you’re a beer lover, a trip to Dublin wouldn’t be complete without visiting the Guinness Storehouse. You can take a self-guided tour of the brewery and learn about the history and process behind Ireland’s most famous export. The tour ends at the Gravity Bar where you can enjoy a pint while taking in panoramic views of the city. Get skip-the-line admission tickets here for this tour.
• Local bakeries – Dublin is known for its delicious baked goods, including fresh bread and pastries. Check out local bakeries like Bread 41 just north of Trinity College for a tasty treat.
• Whiskey tasting – Irish whiskey is world-renowned, and Dublin has some great options for whiskey tastings. The Jameson Whiskey Distillery offers guided tours and tastings, or you can visit pubs like The Palace Bar or Dingle Whiskey Bar for a more relaxed atmosphere.
• Local Grocery Store Stop – This may sound surprising, but one of the best ways to experience a new culture is by visiting their local grocery store. You can find unique snacks and drinks that you won’t see anywhere else, plus it’s a great place to grab some food for a picnic in the park. Try Taytos potato chips, a blackcurrant drink, or a delicious Irish cheese.

Get Some Fresh Air

It’s no secret that spending time outdoors can help reset your body clock and combat jet lag symptoms. Luckily, Dublin has plenty of green spaces to explore, including St. Stephen’s Green Park and Phoenix Park – one of the largest urban parks in Europe. Take a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or simply sit and people-watch. Whatever you choose to do, spending some time outside can be invigorating and refreshing after a long flight.

Indulge in Some Retail Therapy

If you’re feeling a little tired after your long flight, why not treat yourself to some retail therapy? Dublin is home to several excellent shopping districts, including Grafton Street, Henry Street, and Dundrum Town Centre. You’ll find everything from high-end designer boutiques to budget-friendly high-street stores, and there’s something for everyone.

One of the best souvenirs to buy in Ireland is wool clothing, as Ireland is renowned for its high-quality wool and traditional knitwear. For unique shopping experiences, head to one of the many wool shops on Grafton or Nassau Streets, like Kilkenny Shop Aran Sweater Market, and Avoca.

Note: Be sure to ask for a VAT receipt when making purchases in Ireland so you can claim a VAT refund at the airport before you leave.

Take a Food Tour

Ireland has a rich history and culture, and what better way to explore it than through its food? Dublin offers several food tours that will introduce you to traditional Irish cuisine and local specialties. Check out these three guided tours:

• Dublin Walking and Secret Food Tour
• Irish Cuisine and Craft Beer Tour of Dublin
• Afternoon Tea Bus Tour of Dublin

A tour guide will lead you through the city’s streets, stopping at various locations to sample different dishes and drinks. It’s an excellent way to immerse yourself in the local culture and try some delicious food along the way.

Enjoy Some Traditional Irish Music

No trip to Ireland would be complete without experiencing traditional Irish music. Fortunately, Dublin is home to some of the best pubs in the country for live traditional music. Head over to Temple Bar or Grafton Street for a pint of Guinness and some toe-tapping tunes. The buskers on Grafton Street come out in the evening and are great to listen to.

Note: You can also ask your hotel concierge for recommendations on Irish music venues near your hotel.

Take a Walking Tour

A walking tour is a great way to explore Dublin and learn about its history and culture. There are several options available, from free tours to more specialized tours focusing on specific areas of interest. Some popular walking tours include the Welcome Tour with a Local, which is a great way to meet locals and get insider tips about the city, and the Haunted History Tour, which explores Dublin’s dark and mysterious past.

Literacy Sites

For book lovers, you can plan a stop a the former home of Oscar Wilde, see the chemist shop featured in James Joyces’ Ulysses, and others.

Explore Dublin Castle

Located in the heart of Dublin, this historic castle dates back to the 13th century and was once the seat of British rule in Ireland. Today, it’s a major tourist attraction where you can take a guided tour to learn about its fascinating history and see rooms that are still used today for important state functions. Advance tickets are required.

Take a Day Trip

If you’re feeling particularly adventurous and aren’t too jet-lagged, why not take a day trip outside of Dublin? There are several nearby destinations that are well worth visiting, including Carlingford, Malahide, and Newgrange.

Explore the Coast

Ireland’s coastline is breathtakingly beautiful, and a great way to get some fresh air and take in the scenery is to take a short drive to Carlingford Village (90 minutes drive from city center) or take the train to Malahide (just north of Dublin airport). Both are easily accessible from Dublin and you’ll find plenty to see and do in these charming seaside towns.

Carlingford is known for its stunning scenery, narrow medieval streets, and Carlingford Castle. Malahide also boasts a picturesque harbor, a historic castle, and quaint shops and restaurants to explore. Take a walk along the coast in either town, grab some fish and chips at a local pub, or relax on the beach and watch the waves roll in.

Carlingford Village

If you’re feeling adventurous, walk or cycle along the Carlingford Greenway, which takes visitors alongside the Carlingford Lough. The trail goes through the picturesque countryside from the village’s marina to O’Meath and back. The views of the coast and water are stunning.

We took a 12km guided bike tour along the greenway with Carlingford bikes. They offer both guided tours as well as bike rentals (e-bikes & non-motorized). This is a great way to get some exercise while taking in the beautiful scenery.

If you want to stop for lunch in Carlington, I highly recommend PJ O’Hare’s, where you can enjoy a delicious pub meal. Their seafood chowder is a must-try! After my bike ride, it was the perfect way to recharge and refuel. l tried the chowder, steamed mussels, and monster crab claws. All are delicious!!

Malahide

Malahide has more of a quaint beach feel with a harbor, beach, and castle to explore. If you aren’t renting a car, you can easily access Malahide by rail from Dublin City Centre. This is a great way to get some fresh air and enjoy the scenery without having to worry about driving.

Highlights of Malahide include visiting Malahide Castle, exploring the marina, and taking a leisurely walk along the beach. Take a stroll through the beautiful gardens at the 12th-century Malahide Castle or take a guided tour of this historic home.

Afterward, you can take a coastal walk from the Malahide marina to Portmarnock or Swords. The views of the Irish Sea are stunning. The town also offers excellent shopping options, with boutiques, gift shops, and artisanal markets.

I enjoyed dinner at Townyard House, a cozy gastropub serving delicious Irish cuisine and craft beers. Their seafood tower was one of the best seafood meals I’ve had on the island! It serves two people and includes a variety of locally sourced seafood, including prawns, fish, mussels, and scallops. It’s the perfect way to end your day exploring Malahide.

Explore Newgrange

Newgrange is a prehistoric monument that is older than the Egyptian pyramids. It’s located in the Boyne Valley, just 30 minutes from Dublin. It’s an incredible structure that was built over 5,200 years ago, and it’s still standing. The monument is made up of a mound of stones and a passage tomb that is decorated with intricate carvings. The best part is that you can go inside the tomb and explore it for yourself.

Visiting Newgrange is the perfect way to combat jet lag and stretch your legs. It’s a fascinating experience that will keep you occupied for several hours, and it’s a great way to stay active and alert. The walk up to the monument is also helpful for getting your blood flowing and shaking off any grogginess you may be feeling after a long flight.

A guided tour is Newgrange is the only way to get up close to the monument. You a prebook a tour online or sign up for a same-day tour at the Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre on the south side of the river Boyne. The visitor center at Newgrange is worth a visit on its own so you can learn about the history and significance of this ancient structure.

Note: As this is one of the top things to do in Ireland, advanced planning is recommended to secure a spot on the guided tour.

Spend the Night at a Castle Estate

If you’re looking for a truly memorable accommodation experience that is just a short drive from Dublin, consider staying at Killeavy Castle Estate. This luxurious castle dates back to the 19th century and has been lovingly restored into a boutique hotel with elegant rooms, fine dining options, and breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Families can rent out the entire castle or opt to stay at the adjacent modern hotel.

Set on 350 acres of beautiful grounds at the base of Slieve Gullion, a mountain in County Armagh. You can take walks on the estate to explore the forest and wildlife or visit Killeavy’s walled gardens. The estate also has a full on-site spa complete with a thermal suite for guests’ enjoyment.

After a long flight or a day of exploring, there’s nothing quite like unwinding in the comfort and grandeur of a castle. It’s an experience that you will never forget and one that is unique to Ireland.

Summary

While jet lag can be a real challenge after a trans-Atlantic flight, there is no need to let it ruin your first day in Ireland. Whether you prefer to immerse yourself in the culture, take a leisurely walk, enjoy the stunning scenery, or indulge in a little bit of retail therapy, Dublin and the surrounding area have something for you. I hope that this list of what to do in Ireland helps you make the most of your first day and hit the ground running!

By embracing the city and all it has to offer, you’ll be sure to make the most of your time in Ireland, even if you haven’t quite adjusted to the new time zone yet. So, don’t let jet lag hold you back from enjoying your Irish adventure. Get out and explore! Sláinte! (Cheers!)