- Download our Moving to Dublin Guide (PDF)
Living with kids and family in Dublin is generally enjoyable, even if you encounter the occasional challenge. Children here quickly adapt to the rhythm of city life and quickly enjoy the many parks and playgrounds scattered across the suburbs. For newcomers, Dublin can feel lively and energetic, but rarely overwhelming.
There is a wealth of activities to keep little ones entertained – from castles and museums to theatres and green spaces. Dublin offers a supportive environment for raising children, while still giving youngsters the excitement of growing up in a vibrant, dynamic city.
Challenges for expat parents in Dublin
Settling into family life in Dublin can bring its share of challenges for expat parents. Navigating the Irish capital – from registering with the Health Service Executive (HSE) to finding the right school – can feel complex and time consuming, especially for those new to the country.
Finding accommodation can be another roadblock, with demand for family-friendly homes often outstripping supply. Balancing proximity to school and work requires careful planning, and competition for properties can be intense. Connecting with local estate agents is a well-trodden path to finding the right place to stay, while expat networks can make the transition smoother.
Visas and Residence Permits for Ireland
Finding Accommodation in Dublin
Family-Friendly Areas and Suburbs in Dublin
Education in Dublin
Education is an important topic to think about when relocating to Dublin with children. The city offers a wide range of schooling options, including public, private, and international schools. Those coming from English-speaking countries are likely to have an easier time, while families with other mother tongues may have more limited options. The quality of education in Dublin is generally high, but it still pays to research and compare schools thoroughly. The availability of extracurriculars is an important consideration, as sports, arts, and cultural activities can help children make friends and assimilate more easily.
Education and Schools in Dublin
Popular International Schools in Dublin
Parent networks and playgroups in Dublin
If you are new to the city and looking to make friends, parent networks are a great option. Find them on social media, at local community centres, or on online platforms like Meetup. Playgroups are also a popular way for parents and children alike to find some new friends in Dublin. There are loads of playgroups to choose from, so it should be easy for you to find one in your neighbourhood. When looking for local playgroups, your local school may be able to offer some recommendations – otherwise, there are plenty of directories online that list Dublin's playgroups.
Entertainment for kids in Dublin
When it’s not raining, pack a picnic and head down to Phoenix Park or St Stephen's Green, or take your kids to the Dublin Zoo to meet their favourite animals. Phoenix Park is perfect for picnics, woodland walks, and exploring historical sites like Ashtown Castle and the Victorian Kitchen Walled Garden. St Stephen's Green offers a lovely fenced-in playground and a sensory garden for the visually impaired.
The Viking Splash Tour is a great way for your little ones to discover their new city. Travelling in an amphibious vehicle, these tours are over land and water. They depart from St Stephen's Green North and take about 75 minutes, during which a 'Viking' entertains passengers and points out all the city's major attractions.
Another popular attraction for your youngsters is The Ark, a purpose-built kids' theatre and exhibition space in the cultural neighbourhood of Temple Bar. It hosts theatre, music, dance productions, and workshops for kids.
The Chocolate Warehouse is a dream come true for chocolate-loving children. Kids can take tours of the factory's machinery, learn about the history of chocolate, take part in fascinating chocolate workshops and of course, sample plenty of it along the way. The venue also hosts birthday parties, special events, and seasonal events around Christmas and Easter, with strict safety measures in place.