Is Dublin safe? An honest guide for visitors
Short answer
Dublin is generally safe for visitors, with low levels of violent crime against tourists. The realistic issues are pickpocketing and bag theft in busy areas, and some anti-social behaviour on a few central streets late at night; most visitors never experience more than rowdy weekend crowds.
The real risks
Pickpocketing and bag theft
Most common in Temple Bar, on Grafton Street and O'Connell Street, on busy buses and the Luas, and in crowded pubs. Keep bags zipped and in sight and never hang them on a chair back.
Phone snatching
Occasionally from people on bikes or e-scooters. Step into a doorway to check your map rather than holding your phone out at the kerb.
Late-night anti-social behaviour
Around O'Connell Street, Talbot Street and some city-centre Luas stops late in the evening. Stay on busy, well-lit streets and use a taxi after midnight.
Drink-related trouble
Temple Bar and Harcourt Street get crowded and boisterous on Friday and Saturday nights. Watch your drink and avoid arguments.
Traffic and weather
Cars drive on the left: look right first when crossing. Wind and rain make coastal walks such as Howth slippery, so stay on the paths.
Areas and times to take care
Take more care late at night on and around O'Connell Street, Talbot Street and Abbey Street, and in Temple Bar after closing time at weekends. During the day, these areas are busy and fine. Neighbourhoods visitors usually explore, such as the Georgian squares, St Stephen's Green, the Liberties, Portobello, Ranelagh, Ballsbridge and the coastal villages, are generally calm.
Getting around safely
Licensed taxis have a yellow-and-blue roof sign and a meter; you can hail them or book through FreeNow or Uber (which books licensed taxis). Dublin Bus runs some 24-hour routes, and Luas and DART finish around midnight. There is no train or tram to the airport; the Dublin Express and Aircoach coaches run through the night or very late.
Solo and women travellers
Dublin is generally comfortable for women travelling alone, and the pub culture is sociable rather than threatening. Use the usual city precautions at night: stay on busy streets, use a licensed taxi or app, and avoid walking alone along the quays or through quiet side streets after midnight. In an emergency, call 112 or 999.
Health, water and heat
Tap water is safe to drink. The main health issue is weather rather than illness: rain and wind are common in every month, so pack waterproofs and good shoes. EU visitors should carry an EHIC; pharmacies are widespread, and a GP visit or A&E can be expensive without insurance for non-EU visitors.
Official travel advice
Check your government's advice before you travel — it is updated when things change.
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Common questions
Is Dublin safe for tourists?
Yes, generally. The main risks are pickpocketing and some anti-social behaviour on a few central streets late at night.
Is Temple Bar safe at night?
It is busy and mostly good-natured, but crowded and boisterous at weekends. Watch your belongings and your drink, and take a taxi home late.
Can you drink tap water in Dublin?
Yes, Dublin's tap water is safe to drink.