Travel is expensive, there is no way around it. Flights, accommodation, transport, and dining all add up to a large bill at the end of the day. Luckily travel also enriches your mind and broadens your horizons so it’s usually worth the monetary expense. If you’re planning on travelling to Dublin soon, you’ll soon notice that it’s an expensive place to visit. Here are our top tips to save money in Dublin:
Travel
Getting here can often be the most expensive part of your trip. Travelling during off-peak times – generally October to early March – usually guarantees you cheaper flights and accommodation in Dublin. Also, there are fewer tourists in the city so staff will have more time to chat and recommend places to see and things to do.
Getting around is easy enough, after all, it’s not a huge city to navigate. Buy a Leap Card for the duration of your stay for a refundable €5.00 and avail of cheaper public transport fees on the Dart, train, bus, and LUAS. Avoid expensive taxis where possible and if necessary, try to cab share to reduce costs.
If you plan on bringing a car to visit destinations further afield we have plenty of on-site parking available. To find out more or to pre-pay you can visit Apcoa Parking at DCU. Check out our blog on summer day trips in Ireland to find out about our favourite day trip destinations. Breathtaking sights and rich history are guaranteed.
Dining
Dining in Dublin can be a huge expense so many sure you eat smart. There are so many bargain restaurants, student discounts, and early birds to take advantage of so keep your eyes open. Try Mongolian BBQ for a healthy fast food alternative that offers all you can eat.
If you have special dietary requirements, are a fussy eater or want to save money, book alternative accommodation, like DCU rooms, where you have access to kitchen facilities. You can prepare meals, enjoy a lazy breakfast and take packed lunches and coffees with you on your adventures in Dublin without breaking the bank.
Avoid Temple Bar! It’s a haven for tourists meaning prices are hugely inflated, up to €4 more per drink than a more ‘local’ pub. Walk through and enjoy the atmosphere, take some pictures and maybe enjoy a drink or two but don’t spend a fortune on food and drink just because of the location.
Accommodation
Forget overpriced hotels in Dublin, book alternative accommodation just outside the city for the very best value for money. Dublin Hotels can be wildly expensive, especially if there is an event in the city. You’re here to explore the city, not spend time in a fancy hotel so choose wisely.
Whether you’re booking a hotel or any other type of accommodation in Dublin, make sure to book direct. Cut out the middleman (namely booking.com, Expedia, etc) as you’re always guaranteed the best available rate when you contact the hotel directly. For example, DCU rooms offer the best rates, free car parking, and free Wi-Fi to our direct booking guests.
Sightseeing
Use DCU Rooms free Wi-Fi to plan your trip, making sure to get the best of the free activities and sights in the city. We are lucky in Dublin, all of the parks, museums, and galleries in the city are free to enter and explore. Our city parks are second to none and you can enjoy a picnic or a coffee while exploring them – weather dependant of course.
Pre-book any paid sights that you really want to see in advance, taking advantage of online discounts, OAP rates and student discounts where available. If you plan to do a lot of sightseeing, invest in a Dublin Pass for discounts and free entry to some of the city’s biggest attractions.
Take advantage of the many free walking tours available every day. These tours are great for getting some insider knowledge from a local guide and for getting the lay of the land before you do your own exploring. You can leave a voluntary donation at the end of the trip, much cheaper than a tour bus!
If you’re looking for your perfect reasonably priced accommodation, avoid hotels in Dublin. DCU Rooms offer an alternative, budget-friendly accommodation just outside the city with the added bonus of free wi-fi, free parking and other on-site facilities like a gym, swimming pool, and restaurants. Call our friendly reservations team to check availability for your leisure or group booking today.
