Things are looking good lads, brighter days are coming!
Over the next few weeks, Dublin will slowly transform into an even more dreamy version of our already gorgeous city. With a grand stretch in the evening and bustling streets of people, delighted to see some evening sun!
In Dublin, spring is when the city stays bright after lectures, the air is lighter, and everyone’s plans start revolving around one thing! Spending as much time outdoors as possible. If you’re a Trinity student, consider this your simple guide to making the most out of Spring in Dublin with ideas that are cheap and cheerful.
Parks
There’s nothing quite like a nice park in Dublin on a sunny day! So take advantage.
St Stephen’s Green: Perfect for a stroll, people-watching, or even a quick breath.
Merrion Square: Just off campus! This is a great spot for a stroll, and on Thursdays, there’s a an great street food market!
Iveagh Gardens: Personally, I think it’s one of the best picnic options in the city. It’s quiet and slightly hidden!
Phoenix Park: If you want space to think, cycle, or just walk, this is the one. Bonus points for finding some deer.
The spots
If the weather can’t decide what it’s doing (classic Dublin), museum gardens are the best of both worlds.
Anywhere on Drury Street: One thing is for sure. If the weather is even slightly sunny this place is bound to have a nice atmosphere. Plenty of artisan shops, food, drink and more!
Bull Island: Specifically “Happy out”, this spot is worth the drive or bus out to Clontarf. Just over the bridge to Bull Island, there’s Happy Out, serving sandwichs and coffee. Happy out, has views of the water and connects to Portmarnock beach so you can stroll straight after your fuelling!
Howth / Clogherhead / Carlingford: A seaside village is always a good day out when the sun is shining. These are a few of my personal favorites.
Howth village is charming and full of foodie options and I note below great walks too!
Clogherhead is beautiful, bring your walkng boots and a swim suit and get out for a drip, followed by a cosy coffee shop.
The ideal day in Carlingford consists of the hot box sauna and open water cold plunge, followed by a trip to Strandfield (Voted best cafe in Ireland 2025).
Coastal Escapes (Only a DART away!)
One of the best things about living in Dublin is the sea is never too far! Grab your Student Leap Card and head to Pearse Street Station.
Howth Cliff Walk: The views are unreal! Plus you’ll have to reward yourself with a fish and chip or an ice cream in the village after.
Dalkey → Killiney Hill: Get the DART out to Dalkey, walk toward the coast, then head up to Killiney Hill for that famous Obelisk view!
Get out on the bike
Can you tell I like Clontarf? But seriously, for an easy, scenic cycle, head for Clontarf Promenade out to Bull Island. It’s flat with great cycle routes and lots of stopping options along the way.
Weekend Markets & Local Culture
For an easy weekend win, a good market is a must!
Temple Bar Market (Saturday): food stalls and secondhand book browsing.
Herbert Park Market (Sunday): great hot food and a built-in walk after.
St. Annes Park, Clontarf (Saturday): A park run, lovely food and lots of artisan Irish pop-ups.
Sea and Sauna
If your feeling ready to take on the Irish sea, try a dip at the Forty Foot in Sandycove. It’s a real rite of passage. Pair it with a sauna and coffee afterwards and you’ll be flying!
Now it’s time to get out and enjoy!
Ready to start your Trinity journey?
Spring is the perfect time to imagine yourself here. If you want to learn more about joining our global community of students from over 120 countries, check out our International Student Guide here or connect with a student ambassador.
