Dublin's Unhidden Gems: 5 Must-Dos for Your Bucket List
You've hit the iconic pubs, listened to the buskers play in the streets, and walked through the campus of Trinity College, now it's time to experience Dublin like a local.
Guinness is cool, but have you had Bambino’s spicy honey pizza yet?
Ah, Dublin. The land of literary legends, endless pubs, and more sheep souvenirs than you could ever fit in your carry-on. But once you've kissed the Blarney Stone (spoiler: it’s not in Dublin), walked the Temple Bar strip, and Instagrammed your Guinness foam art—you might find yourself craving something a little less touristy and a little more Dubliners actually go here.
Here’s your official permission slip to veer off the cobblestone path and discover the Dublin that locals know and love. We’re talking cheese shops, sea swims, and a thrift scene so good it’ll ruin Depop for you forever.
Let’s dive into the unhidden gems of Dublin:
Bambino Pizza
Location: 4 Aungier St, Dublin 2
What is it? A tiny pizza shop that you won’t stop thinking about.
Why we’re obsessed: Ok this one WAS a TikTok rec but it’s #1 on our list because it’s a MUST if you come to Dublin. Bambino is the place you stumble into at midnight (or literally any time of day) and then spend the next year dreaming about (hence why we had to go twice in our three days in Dublin). Their spicy vodka sauce pepperoni slice is legendary, and, yes, it will beat any other pizza you’ve ever had. And don’t even get me STARTED on “the Vito,” a pepperoni pizza with hot honey AND burrata—like are you joking? Plus, the branding is adorable (little baby cherubs everywhere) and the playlist always delivers. It gives retro Italian pizza shop meets Gen-Z girl running their marketing.
Pro tip: Grab two slices and then save room in your itinerary to make another stop before you leave.
Loose Cannon (and the ice cream shop next door)
Location: 29 Drury St, Dublin 2
What is it? A natural wine bar meets cheese shop right next to a insanely good ice cream spot.
Why we’re obsessed: Picture this: you’re sipping a fresh wine at a sidewalk table, nibbling on some funky Irish cheese (or getting a delicious toasty on sourdough), and then—plot twist—you finish it off with a scoop of blueberry cheesecake ice cream from next door. Loose Cannon is effortlessly cool without trying too hard. The staff know their stuff but won’t make you feel like you need to be a sommelier to order a glass. Plus, is the perfect place to get THE Pinterest photo.
Vico Baths
Location: Dalkey, a short DART (public transport slay) ride from Dublin city center
What is it? A historic sea-swimming spot nestled in the cliffs.
Why we’re obsessed: They don’t call it the Amalfi Coast of Ireland for no reason. If you’ve ever fantasized about plunging into icy-blue water like an Irish mermaid, this is your chance (#coldplunge). Vico Baths is local-local, like to the point that if you tell an Irish person you are going to Vico they will always respond with “how do you know about that?” There’s no sand, just salty sea air and jaw-dropping views of the Irish coast (They don’t just call it the Emerald Isle for all that greenery). Still jetlagged? Your time at Vico will fix that quick!
The Thrift Scene
Location: All over Dublin
What is it? A secondhand shopper’s dream.
Why we’re obsessed: Dublin is sneaky good at thrifting. Whether you’re after Y2K sequin tops, vintage Burberry, or a reworked rugby shirt that says, “I study abroad and have taste,” Dublin has what you’re looking for. Here are our top picks:
- Loot Vintage
- Nine Crows
- Tola Vintage
- 35 Vintage
Budget some extra baggage weight—you’re going home with at least one new (old) jacket.
Spice Bags
Location: All over Dublin, especially after a night out
What is it? The most delectable, comforting late-night snack known to humankind.
Why we’re obsessed: Imagine a paper bag filled with chips (fries), crispy chicken, onions, peppers, and an unhinged amount of salty-spicy seasoning and a side of spicy curry. That’s a spice bag. It’s a glorious Irish-Chinese fusion that hits like nothing else when you’re hungry and slightly feral after a night on the town. Be forewarned, if you’re feeling stuffy before a spice bag, you’ll be clear after two bites. No two spice bags are ever quite the same, but that’s part of the fun. Ask any local where to get the best one and prepare for a heated debate.
Dublin offers a lot more than just a Guinness and old buildings. Sure, the city has iconic landmarks and must-do experiences, but don’t sleep on the everyday spots where locals live their lives, eat their snacks, and experience what Ireland truly has to offer.
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