Free Things to Do in Dublin This July: Quick Summary
- Check out free events like The Liberties Festival (21–27 July), open-air music in Temple Bar, and free art workshops at Chester Beatty Library
- Relax in Phoenix Park or St. Stephen’s Green, visit national museums, or pop into historic churches, all without spending a cent
- Free walking tours, cheap food from nearby supermarkets, and local pub deals make your budget go further
- The Dawson Hostel Dublin is central, budget-friendly, and within walking distance of everything in this guide
- Great for backpackers, solo travellers, students, and groups who want to enjoy summer in Dublin without overspending
A Local’s Guide to Free Things to Do in Dublin, July 2025
Coming to Dublin this July? You’ve picked a brilliant time. The city’s packed with energy, festivals, live music, and sunny (hopefully!) park days. The best part? A lot of it’s totally free.
Whether you’re here on a student budget, backpacking around Ireland, or just looking for fun that doesn’t cost much, Dublin has loads to offer. This guide shows you the best free things to do in Dublin this July, especially if you’re staying at The Dawson Hostel in the city centre.
Free Events You Don’t Want to Miss
🔊 Live music and street performances
You’ll hear music all over Temple Bar, Grafton Street, and around town. Buskers are a big part of Dublin life, and you can catch everything from solo singers to full bands while you explore.
🎪 The Liberties Festival (21–27 July)
One of Dublin’s best-loved summer festivals. It’s free and packed with community events: music, film, outdoor fun, and family-friendly stuff. Expect street food, block parties, and maybe even a surprise gig.
📖 Chester Beatty Library – Free Summer Workshops
Right next to Dublin Castle, this museum always has free entry. In July, they’re running extra talks and workshops around art and storytelling. A great way to spend a few quiet hours.
Classic Free Things to Do Around the City
🌳 Picnic in the Park
Grab food from Lidl or Aldi and head to Phoenix Park (spot the deer!) or St. Stephen’s Green for a picnic. Both are lovely in summer and totally free.
🏛 Explore the National Museums
Dublin has loads of great museums, and the best ones are free. You can visit:
- The National Gallery of Ireland
- The National Museum of Ireland: Archaeology
- The Decorative Arts & History Museum at Collins Barracks
⛪ Visit Historic Churches
You’ll need a ticket for full tours of St. Patrick’s Cathedral, but many smaller churches like St. Audoen’s or St. Michan’s let you pop in for free. Peaceful, beautiful, and full of history.
🧭 Join a Free Walking Tour
Ask at reception, we often have info on free walking tours. They’re a great way to learn about Dublin’s past and meet fellow travellers.
Budget Tips While You’re Here
💳 Grab a Leap Card: It’ll save you money on buses, LUAS, and the DART
🍻 Look for pub deals or BYOB events: Places like The Bernard Shaw often host cheap nights
🥘 Cook at the hostel: Use our guest kitchen! Aldi and Lidl are close by for quick meals
📱 Follow local events on Instagram: Many free events only post on social, so keep an eye on what’s happening day to day
Why Stay at The Dawson Hostel Dublin?
If you’re trying to save money, location matters. The Dawson Hostel is right in Dublin city centre, close to Grafton Street, parks, museums, and public transport. You won’t need taxis, and you’ll be able to walk to almost everything in this guide.
You’ll also get a clean bed, late check-in, free Wi-Fi, and a social vibe, perfect whether you’re travelling solo or with mates. No fluff, no fuss, just a great base to explore Dublin on your terms.
Final Word
You don’t need deep pockets to have a great time in Dublin this July. From live music and free festivals to museums and walking tours, the city’s full of ways to enjoy summer for free. Book your stay at The Dawson Hostel Dublin, and dive into it all from the perfect location, without going over budget.
FAQs: Free Things to Do in Dublin July 2025
✧ What are some free events in Dublin this July?
The Liberties Festival, street music in Temple Bar, and Chester Beatty workshops are all great free picks.
✧ Are museums in Dublin free to enter?
Yes, Ireland’s national museums are free, including the National Gallery and Archaeology Museum.
✧ Where can I see live music in Dublin without paying?
Buskers on Grafton Street, pub gigs, and Temple Bar street performers are free and worth checking out.
✧ What’s the best way to explore Dublin on a budget?
Stay centrally, walk as much as possible, visit free museums and parks, and join free walking tours.
✧ Where should I stay in Dublin on a budget this July?
The Dawson Hostel Dublin is one of the best budget stays in the city centre, close to all the top attractions and transport.
✧ Can I find free things to do near The Dawson Hostel?
Absolutely. We’re just minutes from museums, parks, street performances, and festivals happening this July.