Irish Film Institute Dublin
Hangout spot for film lovers
When it comes to Temple Bar, it's like Mecca for tourists visiting Dublin, understandably, as this is the most famous place with very touristy bars and where the craic is mighty. But in the middle of it all is a quiet and peaceful oasis for enthusiasts of the motion picture. Irish Film Institute, first known as National Film Institute, is so much more than just a cinema.
First of all, it looks very strange, the good kind of strange. Its indoor area "pretends to be an outdoor" which gives it a very unique vibe while still doing a good job of protecting the guests with the glass ceiling - a useful feature for rainy weather. Secondly, it has a very nice and quiet beer garden at the back of the building, on the way to the Archive, and if you truly love Irish movies, The IFI Archive is an absolute must-visit in Dublin - if you are lucky, you might even get a tour.
But the true fun for any film lover is the little hidden treasure hunt that is on display throughout the building in the shape of small QR codes that will tell you an amazing story about IFI and Irish films in general. It's good fun and well worth a read.
About this spot
Find your way with 112 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Dublin
Freebird Records
Hidden in plain sight
"Freebird Records" isn't just a secret music shop! It's also a book store with all kinds of second-hand books at a good price & cool vintage stuff...
by
Daiana
Andreea Nagy Deac
The Hot Donut
Artisanal array of flavours
"The Hot Donut" sets itself apart because here donuts are homemade and freshly baked daily with natural and fruit-inspired flavors.
by
Daiana
Andreea Nagy Deac
Marlay Park
For a relaxing picnic day
"Marlay Park", located in Dún Laoghaire in Dublin, is a place I like to go to when I feel like taking a long walk in a natural environment...
by
Daiana
Andreea Nagy Deac
Govinda's
Empathy on a plate
"Govinda's" is a perfect example of altruistic cuisine made reality. It's a restaurant run by Hare Krishnas who make hearty vegan & vegetarian food!
by
Daiana
Andreea Nagy Deac
Needful Things
For the nostalgic-hearted
"Needful Things" in Dublin is an antique, collectibles and second-hand book store that's full of soul! Film buffs will especially love it...
by
Daiana
Andreea Nagy Deac
The Peace Tree
An eternal cypress
"The Peace Tree", also known by the locals as The Tree Of Life, is an impressive sculpture located in Raheny in Dublin that represents local animals...
by
Daiana
Andreea Nagy Deac
The National Botanical Gardens
Oasis in the city
"The National Botanical Gardens" in Dublin is one of my favorite places. I love the greenhouses, especially the Victoria Waterlily House...
by
Daiana
Andreea Nagy Deac
The Famine Memorial
A powerful reminder
"The Famine Memorial" in Dublin commemorates the victims of the Great Irish Famine of the 19th century without & with astonishing honesty...
by
Daiana
Andreea Nagy Deac
Griffith Avenue
The neverending tree-hall
"Griffith Avenue" in Dublin is the longest purely residential tree-lined avenue in Europe. I love having long walks here - especially in autumn!
by
Daiana
Andreea Nagy Deac
River Dodder
Dublin walks
"River Dodder" is a spot I really enjoy - what can be better than a nice, quiet walk along a canal or a river? Protip: bring some bread for the ducks.
by
Alina
Ecke
The Grand Canal
For enjoyable walks
"The Grand Canal" is the part of Dublin I like to go to discover little bridges, cafés and just quiet spots with benches next to the water...
by
Alina
Ecke
Heading to Dublin?
112 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 112 Insider Tips
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
City guides by those who know the city in and out!
Our Locals' Favorite Art & culture
Our team loves Dublin
Get to know our other Spotters from Dublin
As featured on:
