A rainy day in Dublin isn’t an unusual day. So if you’re planning a trip to this cosmopolitan city, we recommend you come prepared, and not just with an umbrella. There are lots of indoor activities in Dublin that’ll keep the craic going, so have a few in mind in case the weather takes a turn.

Here’s just some indoor activities in Dublin to add to your itinerary:

Visit a distillery

Ireland has a long association with whiskey, so technically even drinking the stuff can be considered a cultural activity. What better excuse than a drop of rain to head to Dublin’s newest destination, Teeling Distillery. Enjoy a first-hand experience of the sounds and smells of a fully operational distillery. Or learn 800 years of The Liberties family history at the Pearse Lyons Distillery, where the setting alone will have you in awe.

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For Teeling Whiskey Distillery:
Blue Route, Stop: Teelings Distillery

For Pearse Lyons Whiskey Distillery:
Blue Route & Red Route, Stop: Pearse Lyons Distillery

Mooch around a museum

One of the more relaxing indoor activities in Dublin is gallery and museum hopping. Not just one for a bad weather day, it’s an inspiring way to learn the rich history of this city. Visit the National Gallery of Ireland, home to over 12,500 works of art. Then browse one of the most impressive Natural History Museums in the world. And be sure to check out the unique Little Museum of Dublin, filled with historical donations from every day Dubliners. For more galleries and museums in Dublin, check out our guide.

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For the National Gallery of Ireland & the Natural History Museum:
Blue Line & Red Line, Stop: National Art Gallery

For the Little Museum of Dublin:
Blue Line & Red Line, Stop: St. Stephen’s Green

Hop on and relax

While our buses are open-top, there’s always a dry and welcoming bottom deck ready to take you on your sightseeing adventures. Our designated stops are conveniently right by all the iconic landmarks and most popular attractions. Or you can simply stay on board and let us take you for a scenic spin of the city. With entertaining commentary along the way, you’ll be good to hop off and duck straight into Temple Bar at the end.

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Bus Tour Tickets

Have a lazy lunch

If the weather isn’t playing ball it’s the perfect excuse to duck into a cosy establishment for a culinary taste of Dublin. And we have some personal faves to recommend. Nancy Hands is an authentic pub and restaurant serving up a real Irish dining (and drinking) experience. Think lamb served three ways followed by Irish coffee ice cream. Present your Big Bus Tours ticket and we’ll treat you to a glass of Guinness to cap off your meal. Pacino’s brings a taste of Italy to the heart of Dublin. Ask the professional sommelier to pair the perfect glass of wine with the meaty charcuterie board. Or if you’ve taken our tour, show your ticket and you’ll be offered 2 for 1 meal deals. And Boxty’s is the place for traditional Irish pot cooking, with beef and stout stew, Dublin coddle and seafood chowder all on the menu.

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For Nancy Hands Pub and Restaurant:
Red Route, Stop: Parkgate East

For Pacino’s Italian Restaurant & Gallaghers Boxty House:
Red & Blue Route, Stop: College Green

So that’s our shortlist of indoor activities in Dublin that’ll keep you entertained on your city break, should the weather dictate. And we hope you agree those Plan B options are still a fun way to learn about one of the most interesting cities in the world. Just don’t forget to pack your umbrella!