Dublin for kids: city guide

Dublin is a fantastic holiday destination for the whole family. Whether you are planning a short stay or longer trip, you will love the variety that Dublin City offers visitors of all ages. Finding something to keep everyone (kids included) entertained can be tricky, that's where our tips will help. From the National Leprechaun Museum to Phoenix Park and Dublin Zoo, we'll guide you through the best kid-friendly places to visit in Dublin.

A good place to start the fun is with a City Sightseeing Dublin hop on hop off bus tour. Let's face it kids (and even big kids) love a bus trip, it's a great way to explore Dublin and the kids can enjoy their own special commentary. Check out the bus stop locations to plan your trip and don't forget to take advantage of the many attraction discounts that come with your ticket.

One of the attractions you can jump off at and explore is Dublin Zoo. One of the world's oldest zoos it has wonderful grounds and is home to over 400 animals from all around the world. Recently the zoo welcomed two male okapis, a gorilla and there are always new animals arriving, with two baby red panda cubs being born in September. The kids will love learning about life at the zoo with the daily activities and talks, a truly educational and fun experience, a visit to Dublin Zoo is sure to be one of your holiday highlights.

Dublin Zoo is located on the grounds of Phoenix Park, Europe's largest urban park and surrounded by seven miles of wall (London's Hyde Park could fit inside it five times over!). If the kids have some energy to burn, there are two playgrounds suitable for children aged four to 12 years, or perhaps hire some bikes and explore the wonder of Phoenix Park on wheels. There is also a shuttle bus that can take you to all the main attractions.

The park has plenty of cafés and tearooms to get a snack or drink, or treat the family to an ice cream at one of the park kiosks. More information about the history and wildlife at Phoenix Park, plus the park amenities can be found at the Visitor Centre. Phoenix Park is open 7 days a week, all year round.

Psst! If you're looking for a little bit of tranquility away from Dublin's downtown, then bask in the contemporary grandeur of the Radisson Blu St. Helen's Hotel, Dublin. This Irish National Monument, with its elegant décor and well preserved architecture, is part of a historic estate built in 1750.

Based in the heart of the city, this fun and interactive museum will take you through the folklore and mythology of Ireland and the magical land of the leprechaun. From the first ever sighting of a leprechaun in the eighth century through to modern day depictions, children will be captivated as they learn about this mythical creature, rainbows and pots of gold. The Leprechaun Museum is open all year round and is a fascinating insight into Celtic and Irish culture for the whole family.

After all that sightseeing you'll be in need of a hot drink, or perhaps a pint of Guinness or Irish coffee for the grown-ups. Make sure you pop into a Dublin pub to experience a true taste of Irish craic. There's no shortage of pubs in Dublin (there are well over 1000) so take your pick, or try the Temple Bar area, also known as 'Dublin's Cultural Quarter' which is a popular choice for tourists and locals.

With its narrow cobbled streets the Temple Bar is packed with bars, shops, restaurants and cafes. If you are there on a weekend, make sure you check out the outdoor markets where you can try some local produce or pick up a handmade memento of your visit to Dublin. The family will love the bustling vibe of this cosmopolitan part of Dublin.

Finding suitable accommodation is an important part of holiday planning, especially when travelling with children. The Radisson Blu Hotel, Dublin Airport offers beautifully appointed rooms and a location that provides the best of both worlds, with easy travel links to Dublin City and Dublin Airport. Guests will enjoy free high speed internet and spacious family rooms, the perfect Dublin holiday accommodation to recharge your batteries after a fun day of sightseeing. Looking to stay centrally to be able to reach the top attractions by foot? Choose the Radisson Blu Royal Hotel, Dublin.