Post-Exam Escapes: Where Students Unwind In and Around Dublin 💁‍♂️😎

Take a break without breaking the bank—with your ISIC card in hand!

Exams are over. Your brain's fried, your notes are a blur, and all you want is a breather. Whether you're a local student or studying abroad in Dublin, the city (and its scenic outskirts) offers the perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, and affordability—especially when you have your ISIC card to unlock student discounts.

From peaceful sea strolls to quick getaways, here are our top picks for where students love to unwind after exam season:

1. Howth Coastal Walk – Nature’s Therapy

Just a 30-minute DART ride from Dublin city centre (with discounted fares using your student card), Howth offers cliffside views, fresh sea breeze, and cozy cafés. The Howth Cliff Walk loop is ideal to clear your head, spot seals, and take in the views without spending a cent.

Howth Cliff Walk

2. Phoenix Park – Chill, Cycle & Spot Deer

One of the largest enclosed parks in Europe, Phoenix Park is just the escape you need. Rent a bike (some rental spots offer ISIC discounts!) and explore its tree-lined trails. Pack a picnic, read under a tree, or visit the free Dublin Zoo areas and monuments inside.

Deers at Phoenix Park

3. National Botanic Gardens – Free & Tranquil

If you’re craving peace without leaving the city, the Botanic Gardens in Glasnevin are lush, quiet, and free to enter. It’s a perfect spot to reset your mind among exotic plants, glasshouses, and winding paths.

National Botanic Garden, Glasnevin

4. Poolbeg Lighthouse Walk – Sea, Solitude, and Stunning Views

Lace up your sneakers and head to the iconic Poolbeg Lighthouse for a meditative walk along the Great South Wall. It’s free, windy, and refreshing—especially at sunset. Pro tip: grab a hot chocolate from a local food truck nearby.

Poolbeg Lighthouse

5. Quick City Breaks with ISIC Discounts

Got a full day or weekend? Use your ISIC card to grab discounted bus or train fares to Kilkenny, Bray, or even Belfast. Many museums, galleries, and cultural attractions offer reduced or free entry with your ISIC—perfect for a student-friendly adventure without overspending.

Don’t Just Escape—Experience

Whether you're decompressing alone or heading out with friends, post-exam getaways don’t have to be expensive. With your ISIC card, you can access exclusive student travel deals, discounts on attractions, and even savings at cafés and stores around Dublin.

So go ahead—ditch the textbooks, grab your ISIC, and rediscover your energy one experience at a time.