11 Things to Do in Dublin with Kids

Dublin is a compact city and most of its central attractions are within walking distance of each other. The bustling streets can be busy enough to slow you down though, so it's often easier to book your Dublin adventures and zip between the city sights in style and comfort. The big yellow Viking Splash Tour amphibious WWII vehicle is a familiar sight on the roads and along the waterways of central Dublin. Climb aboard to explore the city and learn its history while roaring like a Viking at passers-by.

It doesn't take long to fall in love with Dublin, which offers all the modern shops and entertainments of other capital cities but also has a distinctive charm and flair that sets it apart. Certain attractions and activities, like the Dublinia living history museum, are so unique to the Irish capital that even small kids can get a sense of what makes the place so special. Stride the decks of a Viking warship, browse a medieval market, dig through ancient ruins for lost treasures – Dublinia is an immersive, interactive experience that brings the city's 1,000-year history to life.

You may think of the spud as being rather humble, but Boxty does glorious things with Ireland’s staple food. The Boxty potato pancakes are a must-try, covered with whatever sauce you like. The kids’ menu doesn’t patronise, but instead offers smaller versions of traditional crowd-pleasers like Irish stew and potato dumplings.

If you're over 1.2 metres tall and not afraid of heights, you can walk around the roof of one of Europe's biggest sports stadiums. You'll get an unbeatable view over the city, Dublin Bay, and the mountains beyond.

You don't need a golden ticket to visit this chocolate factory and museum. You can follow your nose through the exhibits to the sweet-smelling kitchen where delicious treats are made and create your own chocolate masterpiece.

Visitors can learn the closely guarded secrets of Ireland's mischievous fairy-folk at this fun venue that's more a storytelling centre than a museum. Charming guides hold big and little guests spellbound with tales from Irish folklore.

There are several competing open-top bus tours offering hop-on, hop-off services around the city. The best-known is run by Dublin Bus, whose expert guides provide fun, informative, and sometimes hilarious commentary en route.

Dublin helps to spark big imaginations in little people with creative play, performing arts, and hands-on learning. What does your child want to be for the day? Construction worker, chef, or monster? Anything is possible at Imaginosity, Dublin’s children’s museum. They can engage in free play in different sections of the museum, or get involved with structured performances and puppet shows.

Aimed at toddlers to pre-teens, The Ark is a unique cultural centre which promotes all kinds of art, from literature to drama. You can just go to watch a show, or get messy adding to themed art galleries. There are also music and performance workshops for families to participate in.

The original Luigi Malone was half-Italian and half-Irish, and the restaurant continues that transnational tradition, with a mix of local ingredients and Italian-inspired dishes. There’s a special kids' menu, and they’ll love the chance to create their own pizzas. Plus, early-bird deals are ideal for family meals.