Sustainable Tourism Activities in Dublin

Spend an afternoon enjoying the greenery in Phoenix Park and discovering the twists and turns of one of the largest enclosed public parks in a European capital. Originally created as a royal hunting park in the 1660s and a large herd of wild deer still inhabit the park today and can be easily spotted. Why not rent a bike at the park entrance and explore everything the park’s 700 hectares has to offer from the Victorian Flower Gardens to The Glen Pond and Áras an Uachtaráin. Be sure to stop by Farmleigh House, a piece of the Guinness family legacy constructed on the orders of Arthur Guinness’ great grandson, Edward Cecil Guinness. You can take a guided tour of the stately interior or simply wander the grounds and gardens at your leisure. You’ll come away restored after a short break away from the hustle and bustle of the city surrounded by the calming effects of nature. 

In 2023 The Guinness Storehouse received a Gold Award from Green Tourism, the highest category available. This reflects The Guinness Storehouse’s commitment to sustainability across several key areas both at the forefront of visitor experiences and behind the scenes. The Storehouse also encourages visitors to make the most out of our Guinness Clear stations by bringing their own water bottle. Get your caffeine fix at the lovely Cooperage Café and bring your own ‘keep cup’. Make your way to the Guinness Storehouse easily by taking advantage of the Dublin Bike station located nearby, or availing of the many public transport options available.

Tourism amplifies and supports places of cultural value to cities and communities. One of the ways that visitors to Dublin can do this is through supporting Dublin's thriving theatrical scene and booking in to see a show at one of the many theatres across the city. Booking a show at one of the many theatres across Dublin is a wonderful way to explore its thriving theatrical scene. Venues like The Gate, The Abbey, and The Gaiety specialise in more traditional performances while contemporary theatre lovers can find their people at the renowned Project Arts Centre or Smock Alley Theatre. 

Dublin’s second-hand clothing scene has truly come alive in recent years - why not visit one its many colourful pre-loved boutiques? You’ll no doubt be excited at the unique pieces just waiting to be uncovered. Betty Bojangles, Space Out Sister and Ruby Ruby are just some of the second-hand meccas to be found in the Dublin 8 area. 

If you’re looking for something unique to do in Dublin this weekend why not spend it learning more about sustainability. Did you know Ireland’s National Centre for the Circular Economy is located in Dublin? Located in the Boiler House in Ballymun, the Rediscovery Centre focuses on championing the circular economy and is a great place to stop by and soak up some ideas about sustainable living. In addition to the Eco Store where you can source many sustainable living needs and The Boiler House Cafe serving fair-trade tea and coffee, you can partake in a number of workshops taking place on site. From bike maintenance to furniture upholstery workshops, this is a great chance to learn valuable skills to help your wallet, the environment and the local economy. Not to mention a fun way to meet and speak to people interested in living sustainably.