Dublin is a vibrant, cultural city and is quickly becoming one of the biggest global business and innovation hubs in the world. With this, the city attracts many start up and established businesses and business travellers, as it continues to go from strength to strength as an international digital hub.
If you’re planning a business trip to this metropolis, it’s a good idea to explore and make the most of everything Dublin has to offer. From sightseeing to visiting a traditional Irish pub or making the most of its coastal location with some outdoor activities, Dublin has something for everyone. Here are the 9 best outdoor activities in Dublin which are a must try for business travellers.
Play a Round of Golf with Coastal Views
With over 70 courses within the county, Dublin is home to some of the most impressive golf clubs, including championship courses where the best players in the world have competed. Located on the east coast, Dublin experiences warm and temperate weather, except for the drop in temperature during the winter months, making it ideal for this sport.
The top courses include Portmarnock, which is north of the city centre and located on its own sand peninsula. It is a natural links which has hosted major professional events including multiple Irish Open Championships. Considered by many as one of the fairest courses in the world, it can be incredibly challenging even for the best of players. Visitors are welcome on this course for either a nine- or eighteen-hole round to make the most of green Dublin.
Dublin Bike Tour
Explore the city with experienced guides the eco-friendly way. At a relaxed pace, experience Dublin’s culture and heritage by bike and discover all this city has to offers. Tour Dublin’s vast canals, castles, and cathedrals as well as hear about where famous poets, painters, writers and politicians lived and discover how Dublin became the city it is today.
The city tours are approximately two and a half hours long, covering the best sites in a large part of the city. This is a great outdoor activity in Dublin if you’re looking to learn as much as you can about this iconic city and will certainly leave you with a list of restaurant and bars to try afterwards!
Sea Swimming - the Forty Foot
This small swimming spot in a pretty corner of South County Dublin might not sound appealing due to the notoriously chilly Irish sea temperatures, however there is a surprising charm to this outdoor activity. Dating all the way back to the 19th century, the Forty Foot is a yearlong tradition for locals (with one of its busiest days of the year being Christmas Day) and is one of the best Dublin leisure activities on offer.
Not far from The Forty Foot is the lively, famous baths, Dún Laoghaire, which are another popular sea swimming spot. So on a sunny day, or a colder one if you’re brave enough, check out these well-known swimming destinations, and reward yourself with a Teddy’s ice cream afterwards.
Phoenix Park
As one of the largest enclosed public parks in any European capital city, The Phoenix Park is a green haven for Dublin, offering unmissable outdoor activities and sites. With a large herd of wild fallow deer, the park is also home to Zoological Gardens, Victorian Flower Gardens, a Biodiversity Information Centre, café, and tea rooms. Within the grounds there are many walks and cycle trails, as well as sporting events such as hurling and cricket. The park is open seven days a week with onsite parking available.
Dun Laoghaire Marina Pier
Another popular Dún Laoghaire spot is its 19th century pier and elegant People’s Park. For a pleasant afternoon stroll, hop on the Dart – Dublin’s public train service – and get off at the Dún Laoghaire stop for a peaceful walk along the coast. Or take one of the city’s public bikes and cycle down with beautiful coast views along the way. The People’s Park also offers a popular Sunday food market, which makes for a great family day out exploring green Dublin.
St Stephen's Green
This historical park and garden are right in the city centre of Dublin. With an abundance of sculptures and monuments, the park has a rich history and offers an open space for locals and visitors to enjoy green Dublin. St Stephen’s Green is a great place to absorb the Irish atmosphere and have great transport links close by to get you anywhere in the city.
With tree-lined avenues, a duck pond and a bandstand which is still used in the summer months, this park is Dublin’s top green space.
Howth Cliff Path
For time away from the city’s busiest areas, take the Dart to Howth. Here you can discover the marked trails on the colossal Howth cliffs with coastline views and, on clear days, look out to the surrounding Islands and incredible lighthouses.
The natural cliff scenery is perfect for casual walkers with the full trail taking around one and a half to two hours to walk. After, head to a local pub nearby to enjoy an Irish pint while enjoying the idyllic views.
Killiney Hill and Dalkey Quarry
Killiney Hill is a popular destination for walkers and hikers that offers spectacular sea views, views of the Wicklow mountains and city centre. Known as one of the best walks in Dublin, Killiney Hill has several hiking routes and even features a children’s play park and coffee shop.
An alternative way to reach the top of Killiney Hill is climbing the Dalkey Quarry. This natural rock-climbing venue boasts over 300 routes on quarried granite and is a thrill-seeking outdoor activity in Dublin. With incredible views of the city and a backdrop of the coastline, this is a unique activity for your next trip to Dublin.
Powerscourt Gardens
Named the third best garden in the world by National Geographic, Powerscourt offers 47 acres of curated and maintained greenery as well as a mansion house to explore. The estate café has idyllic views of the parkland and local wildlife from terrace seating. The park trails lead to an incredible waterfall, providing the perfect setting for a picnic or stroll, making this a perfect Dublin leisure activity.
With an abundance of great outdoor activities available in green Dublin, make the most of everything this growing city has to offer on your next business trip. To be prepared for a flying visit or relocation, check out our Dublin Corporate Traveller Guide and if you’re looking for a serviced apartment, get in touch with a member of our team who will help find the perfect accommodation for you.
