Things To Do
in Stillorgan

Stillorgan is a leafy suburb just south of Dublin city center, blending quiet residential streets with a lively village hub. It sits near the foothills of the Dublin Mountains and offers easy access to parks, coastlines, and scenic walks. The area features a mix of family homes, local pubs, and convenient shops that reflect Dublin's neighborhood charm.

With good bus links and proximity to major business parks, Stillorgan serves as a comfortable base for city days and countryside explorations.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Stillorgan Village
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely stroll through Stillorgan Village, visiting local boutiques and cafes. Enjoy a hearty Irish breakfast at a quaint eatery, savoring traditional dishes as you soak in the atmosphere. Don’t forget to grab a coffee to go as you plan your adventures ahead.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, visit the nearby Stillorgan Park, where you can walk or have a relaxing picnic amidst the beautiful greenery. Explore the quaint shops and art galleries nearby that showcase local talent. Your afternoon can also include a visit to the historic Church of St. Laurence O'Toole, steeped in community heritage.

evening
:

As evening falls, unwind at one of Stillorgan's vibrant eateries or pubs, sampling local beers and fresh seafood dishes. Engage with locals and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere enriched by music and laughter. Consider taking an evening stroll through the village to enjoy the charming lights and the peaceful ambiance.

day 2
Day Trip to Dublin City
morning
:

Kick off your adventure with a short bus ride to Dublin City, diving into the vibrant energy of the capital. Visit the iconic Trinity College and see the Book of Kells, a beautifully illustrated manuscript. Grab a quick bite at a local café and enjoy the buzz of city life.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon exploring the many highlights of Dublin, including a visit to the Guinness Storehouse for a taste of Ireland's famous brew. Stroll along the River Liffey and take in the picturesque views of the Ha'penny Bridge. Indulge in shopping on Grafton Street and explore the lively street performances.

evening
:

As dusk descends, settle in for an evening at one of Dublin's renowned pubs, where traditional Irish music often fills the air. Dine on delicious pub fare while mingling with both locals and tourists. A stroll through Temple Bar promises to end your day with a lively twist, filled with art and culture.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
Coffee or tea$3-5
🥗Lunch at cafe or casual restaurant$12-20
🚕Taxi start / short ride$4-8
🏨Mid-range hotel room per night$120-200

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Easy access to both city sights and coastal scenery
  • Strong café and pub culture with friendly locals
  • Good value for a near-city suburb with efficient transport to Dublin center
  • Pleasant year-round climate for outdoor activity
  • Sheltered from some major sights by distance from the core city center
  • Occasional tourist crowds in nearby Dublin neighborhoods
  • Weather can be unpredictable; be prepared for sudden rain
  • "Dia dhuit" - Hello
  • "Dia is Muire duit" - Hello to you (a traditional greeting)
  • "Le do thoil" - Please
  • "Go raibh maith agat" - Thank you
  • "Sláinte" - Cheers / Good health
  • "Conas atá tú?" - How are you?

Places to Visit in Stillorgan

Visit one of these nice places.

Killiney Hill Summit

Iconic viewpoint over Dublin Bay with rolling green slopes and sweeping coastal vistas.

Dalkey Harbour

Colorful boats, rugged coastline, and dramatic skies ideal for seascapes.

Sandycove Beach and Joyce Tower

Classic Dublin shoreline with a blue door tower and early morning or golden hour light.

Dún Laoghaire Pier

Historic Victorian pier with boats, ice cream stands, and sunset reflections on the water.

Stillorgan Reservoir

Peaceful waterside walk with gentle countryside views and occasional waterfowl activity.

Culinary Guide

Food in Stillorgan

Stillorgan sits on the edge of Dublin, offering a mix of Irish pub fare, seafood, and modern cafes. Expect hearty comfort dishes, fresh seafood, and plenty of café culture, with options to suit vegetarian and other dietary needs.

Stillorgan Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Irish Stew

A hearty stew of lamb or beef with potatoes and carrots, a classic comfort dish widely available in pubs.

Must-Try!

Coddle

Dublin’s traditional sausage, bacon, and potato stew simmered slowly for rich flavors.

Seafood Chowder

Creamy fish chowder featuring fresh local seafood, popular in coastal towns around Dublin Bay.

Boxty

Potato pancake served with savory fillings, commonly found in Irish cafes and pubs.

Soda Bread

A dense, slightly sweet bread baked with baking soda, a staple at many Irish meals.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Dún Laoghaire Farmers Market

Seasonal market offering fresh produce, artisanal goods, and ready-to-eat options by the harbor.

Temple Bar Market

Weekend market in central Dublin featuring street food stalls, crafts, and local treats.

Dalkey Market

Coastal market near Dalkey with local foods, baked goods, and snacks ideal for a seaside day.

Climate Guide

Weather

Ireland has a temperate maritime climate with mild temperatures year-round. Expect frequent rain showers, especially in winter, and cooler breezes near the coast. Summers are generally comfortable with daytime highs in the 60s-70s Fahrenheit (15-25°C) and plenty of humidity. Pack layers and waterproof gear to be prepared for changing conditions any time of year.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Polite greetings

Greet with a friendly hello or hi; handshakes are common in formal settings. People may be reserved at first but are typically welcoming once you chat.

Queuing

Irish culture values orderly lines; wait your turn and avoid cutting in.

Driving and road manners

Drive on the left; be patient in traffic and yield to pedestrians at crosswalks.

Safety Guide

Safety

Stillorgan and Dublin Bay area are generally safe for travelers. Keep an eye on belongings in busy tourist spots and use well-lit routes at night. Use licensed taxis or rideshares after dark and be mindful of crowded streets in central Dublin. If you plan outdoor activities, inform someone of your plan and carry a phone with emergency contacts.

Tipping in Stillorgan

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

A service charge is not always included; 10-15% is customary in nicer restaurants if service is good. In pubs and cafés, tipping is optional and small coins or rounding up the bill are common.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common. Cash is still used in smaller venues, but cards are preferred in most establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Long daylight hours, mild temperatures, and frequent pockets of sunshine. Pack light layers, sun protection, and an umbrella for sudden showers. Coastal breezes keep it pleasant, and outdoor cafes fill up with locals and visitors.

Autumn

Brisk mornings with crisp air and vibrant fall foliage in parks and hills. Expect more frequent showers; layer up and enjoy autumnal hikes and cozy pubs.

Winter

Mild but variable with occasional frost and rain; days are shorter. Plan indoor activities and bring a warm layer for bracing seaside walks.

Spring

Flowers return and trails become busier with daylight extending later into the evening. Great for outdoor photography and strolls along the coast.

Nightlife Guide

Stillorgan at Night

Dublin’s nightlife is concentrated in the city center with pubs, live music, and casual bars. Stillorgan and nearby areas offer quieter evenings in traditional pubs, while nearby neighborhoods like Ranelagh, Rathmines, and Blackrock provide a range of venues from cozy pubs to modern bars. For a livelier scene, a short ride into Dublin city center brings you to Temple Bar and Grafton Street’s late-night spots with music, dancing, and a festive atmosphere.

Hiking in Stillorgan

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Ticknock Forest

Popular Dublin Mountains trailhead with forested paths and scenic viewpoints.

Cruagh Wood

Gentle to moderate trails through woodland near the Dublin Mountains.

Sugar Loaf Mountain

A short drive away, offering ridge-top views over Dublin Bay and the surrounding countryside.

Airports

How to reach Stillorgan by plane.

Dublin Airport (DUB)

Main international gateway to Ireland, located approximately 20-25 miles north of Stillorgan; best reached by car, taxi, or rail links via Dublin city.

Shannon Airport (SNN)

Major west coast airport serving Ireland; farther from Stillorgan but accessible by road and longer domestic connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

Stillorgan Village is walkable for daily errands, with decent pedestrian routes to nearby residential areas. Central Dublin is reachable by a short Luas or bus ride, though longer day trips by foot are not practical. The surrounding coast and hills offer scenic walks that are best enjoyed on foot or with a light bike ride.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young professionals

Many residents commute to Dublin city center and nearby business parks, attracted by good transport links and amenities.

Families

Largely residential areas with schools, parks, and family-friendly cafes and pubs.

Students

Access to nearby universities and a variety of study-friendly cafés and affordable eateries.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Gaelic football

A widely played and watched sport across Ireland with local clubs nearby.

Hurling

Ireland's ancient sport, commonly played at club and community levels.

Soccer (Football)

Popular across Ireland with local clubs and leagues available in the Dublin area.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic can be busy along the N11/M11 corridor and into Dublin city during peak hours. Public transport, including the Luas tram and Dublin Bus network, offers convenient alternatives to avoid driving in central areas. Parking in Stillorgan Village is available but can be limited during busy times.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Stillorgan.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Most pubs and cafes offer vegetarian options such as vegetable stews, veggie curries, and salads; many places can adapt dishes on request. When in doubt, ask for a vegetarian adaptation or a side of vegetables with grains to ensure a balanced meal.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services are accessible via the HSE network in Dublin. For routine care, visit local General Practitioners and clinics in Stillorgan or nearby communities. In emergencies, contact 999 or 112 for ambulance services and go to the nearest hospital such as St. James’s Hospital or Beaumont Hospital in Dublin when required.

Discover Ireland

Read more in our Ireland 2025 Travel Guide.

Ireland Travel Guide