Dublin in September: 13 Fun Things to See and Do

Discover things to do in Dublin in September. Find out if a September trip to Dublin is worth it. Enjoy the best of Dublin in the Fall shoulder season

Are you wondering what it’s like to visit Dublin in September? I lived in Ireland for 12 years, close to Dublin City Centre and had the amazing opportunity to experience life in the capital during different parts of the year.

I love Dublin in September. The crowds of tourists have died down a little with kids headed back to school. September also features some fun local festivals and events to check out.

Let’s explore a variety of cool things to see and do in Dublin in September to help inspire your own trip to Ireland at this time of year.

What is the Weather Like in Dublin in September?

September tends to be a little cooler than July and August, with average temperatures dipping back into the 60s (15-20°C). On average, September is not a particularly rainy month, but I still recommend being ready for anything. 

Bring light layers that you can easily put on and take off. Always carry an umbrella (I swear by this technique as an insurance policy against it actually raining), sunglasses, and a good sun hat. 

The days are still long (especially early in the month) so take advantage of the longer daylight hours to explore from dawn until dusk.

Things to do in Dublin in September in Detail

Let's explore cool things to do in Dublin in September in more detail. I've actually done all of these things in the month of September, so they are tried and tested for this time of year. 

In Dublin, the weather is always a wild card, so I've broken down my recommendations into two parts: what to do if the weather is good and what to do in Dublin if it rains or the weather is bad.

What to do in Dublin in September if the Weather is Nice

Let's start on an optimistic note. Here are some ideas for things to do in Dublin in September if the weather is sunny and nice.

1. Visit the Garden of Remembrance

The Garden of Remembrance on Dublin's Northside commemorates those who died in the fight for Irish independence. A plaque at the end of the garden holds a poem entitled "We Saw A Vision" that speaks to the generations of Irish people who fought for freedom. 

If you are interested in Irish history, the Garden of Remembrance is worth a stop for an educational break and some quiet reflection. 

2. Coffee walk on the Dodder

Taking a coffee walk on the River Dodder in Dublin during September is a true Dublin hidden gem. As you stroll along the River Dodder path, which becomes increasingly forested beyond Landsdowne Road, you might encounter various forms of wildlife. 

The area is known for sightings of swans and their cygnets gliding through the water. Additionally, the Dodder attracts a diverse range of bird species, making it a great location for birdwatching. 

The tranquil ambiance created by the sound of flowing water offers a serene escape from the city's bustling streets.

3. Coffee, Swans, and a Stroll in St. Stephen's Green

St. Stephen's Green is considered Dublin's signature city park and is where you can find locals sunning themselves on a nice day in September. The park features a lake filled with swans and ducks, and pretty flowers in well-kept flowerbeds. 

Surrounding the park are historic Georgian buildings. 

The park exudes peace and tranquility, especially early in the morning. Visitors can enter St. Stephen's Green through an inviting arch located across from St. Stephen's Green Shopping Centre. Grab a coffee at Mr. Magpie to enjoy with your walk.

4. Check out the Diving Bell

The Diving Bell is a large, historic, orange metal structure located on the River Liffey in Dublin. It was instrumental in making Dublin a viable port. Workers would descend into the water inside the Diving Bell to dredge the port, deepening it enough for large sea vessels. 

The Diving Bell itself is visually striking and a great subject for photographers. It is located near other photogenic spots, including the Samuel Beckett Bridge and Dublin Convention Center.

5. Tour Croke Park (Culture Night)

On Dublin's Culture Night, which takes place annually in September, Croke Park, home to Irish sports like hurling and Gaelic football, offers behind-the-scenes tours. 

Culture Night grants visitors a special look behind the curtain at Croke Park, revealing areas usually inaccessible to the public. This exclusive access allows for a deeper understanding of the stadium's operations and significance.

Croke Park is synonymous with Irish sporting heritage, particularly Gaelic football and hurling. Culture Night tours offer insights into these sports, their rules, and their cultural importance in Ireland. The tours often include a visit to the GAA Museum, which further delves into the history of these sports.

What to do in Dublin in September if it Rains

You need to be prepared for anything, weather-wise, on a trip to Dublin. Don't worry if it rains. I've got you covered with some great inclement weather Dublin activities.

6. Experience Dublin Culture Night

We already talked about visiting Croke Park on Culture Night when venues around Dublin throw open their doors. Culture Night takes place on the second to last Friday in September. Keep an eye out for cultural events and workshops around the country. 

Check out the program and enjoy a unique night out in Dublin in September. If it's raining, make sure to focus on indoor events.

7. Catch a Show at the Dublin Fringe Festival

Edinburgh in August is home to the world-renowned Edinburgh Fringe Festival. In September, you can see many of these same acts in Dublin at the Dublin Fringe Festival. Check out a wide array of quirky, eccentric, and cutting edge performances around the city. 

8. Admire the Art at the Royal Hibernian Academy

The Royal Hibernian Academy (RHA) is located behind St. Stephen's Green in Dublin. The RHA, an artist-run institution established in Dublin in 1823, showcases cutting-edge Irish art. 

Admission is free, and it is open from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Saturday. On Sundays, the hours are 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM, with a late closing on Wednesdays at 6:30 PM.

9. See a Performance at Lir Theatre

If it rains in Dublin during your September visit, The Lir Theatre is a great place to take refuge and experience modern and unique performances in Dublin, especially if you are staying near Grand Canal Dock. 

The theatre is part of the Lir Academy, an Irish drama school and conservatory associated with Trinity College Dublin. Keep in mind that performances at the Lir Theatre are typically short runs, often only lasting for a weekend or a week. Dublin Fringe Festival events are frequently held here.

10. Learn about the Past at the Dublin Festival of History

The Printworks at Dublin Castle provides a fitting backdrop for the Dublin Festival of History. Dublin Castle was once a symbol of British rule in Ireland, making it a potent reminder of the country's complex past. 

The festival, typically held at the end of September (Sept 27 - Oct 13, 2024) explores history in a nuanced and engaging manner. We've enjoyed panel discussions with historians. 

Engaging with local and international historians offers insights into various historical perspectives, covering topics like the 1916 Rebellion, Irish independence, or the history of Dublin Castle. 

Another memorable event that we attended was a panel in History in Fiction which explores how authors seamlessly weave historical reality into their storytelling.

12. Attend the Documentary Film Festival at IFI

The Dublin Documentary Film Festival is typically held in September at the IFI, an old Georgian building in Temple Bar. 

The theatre itself is as cool as the movies making this a great place to take refuge if it rains during your September visit to the Irish capital.

13. Catch a show at the Gate Theatre

The Gate Theatre is one of my favorite theatres in Dublin. It's elegant, it's intimate. Expect to see classic plays (both serious and comedic) as well as more experiential pieces. 

We saw an immersive production of The Great Gatsby here. If it rains on your September trip to Dublin, nabbing tickets to a show at the Gate is a great thing to do.

Where to Stay in Dublin in September

I lived in Dublin for 12 years, so I haven't availed of that many hotels here. However, I can personally recommend the following hotels based on my experience staying there:

1. The Wilder Townhouse is a boutique hotel that was once a home for retired governesses. It's situated in a 19th century brick building just a short walk to The National Concert Hall and St. Stephen's Green. The breakfast here is outstanding, the beds are comfy, and the rooms are named after former residents.
2. The Grand Canal Hotel is a more budget-friendly option with a craft beer bar called The Gasworks attached. It's close to the Google offices in Grand Canal Dock.
3. The Charlemont Hilton is conveniently located along the Grand Canal and within easy walking distance of Dublin City Centre, Ranelagh, and Rathmines. I found the hotel room to be well-insulated from noise and I got a great night's sleep.

I can also recommend a few other hotels that my family has stayed in:

1. The Marker is a posh hotel with a fabulous rooftop bar in Grand Canal Dock.
2. The Dylan is a boutique hotel in a historic building in Ballsbridge. It's walking distance to Dublin City Centre and just around the corner from the vibrant shops, restaurants, and pubs on historic Baggot Street.
3. The Schoolhouse Hotel is truly unique and is located in a historic school house. It's also home to one of my favorite pubs in Ireland.

In my experience, the best neighborhoods to stay in Dublin depend on your preferences. If you want to be in the heart of it all, stay around Stephen's Green. Ballsbridge or Grand Canal Dock is a good choice if you want to be central, but not too central.

In general, areas south of the River Liffey are considered more "posh" and areas north of the Liffey can be a bit edgier. I don't recommend staying in Temple Bar (it will be noisy!)

There are a number of hostels and cheaper accommodation along Gardiner Street on the North Side. This is definitely an edgier part of town and I wouldn't recommend it. 

Getting to Dublin in September

Dublin Airport is extremely well connected to the UK and Europe thanks to Aer Lingus and Ryanair. You'll find a wide range of point-to-point connections to get you to Ireland.

For transatlantic flights to the US, Dublin has the advantage of having US pre-clearance. This means that you can clear US customs and immigration in Dublin Airport, so you can go straight to your connection or to baggage claim when you arrive in the US.

To get to Dublin from Asia, India, or Australia/New Zealand, I recommend flying through Dubai on Emirates. I've personally flown Emirates business class and Emirates first class, and I highly recommend the experience.

You can also connect to Dublin from almost anywhere in the world via airports like Lisbon, Amsterdam Schiphol, Frankfurt, Paris, or Istanbul.

To get from Dublin Airport to the city center, you can take a taxi for about €30. There is a surcharge for transportation late at night and on Sundays. The Aircoach or Dublin Bus are more economical options. Unfortunately, Dublin Airport is not served by rail.

Should You Visit Dublin in September?

There are pros and cons to visiting Dublin at any time of year. In September, I see the pros as:

1. The Fringe Festival is on, so you'll have plenty of opportunities to see a show
2. The weather is still nice enough (knock on wood) so you can spend some time outdoors.
3. Less demand for hotels and restaurants now that the peak summer season is over you'll have more choice in where to stay and eat.

The cons of visiting Dublin in September are:

1. It can get crowded in Dublin in September if there is a concert or sports match on. Check the event calendar before locking in your dates to avoid surprises.
2. There is still a fair amount of cruise ship traffic in September. When ships are in port, the city will be busier (sometimes annoyingly so)

Are you planning a trip to Ireland and trying to decide what time of year to visit? Check out month-by-month ideas of things to do in Dublin based on my personal experience:

• Dublin in January
• Dublin in February
• Dublin in March
• Dublin in April
• Dublin in May
• Dublin in June
• Dublin in July
• Dublin in August
• Dublin in October
• Dublin in November
• Dublin in December

Did you enjoy this post about things to do in Dublin in September? Sharing is caring..