Attractions, museums, parks, historic pubs and everything worth discovering on a trip to Dublin.
The capital of Ireland, Dublin in the lush green land of the Celts, Guinness beer and James Joyce, is a city with a long history and cultural heritage, yet at the same time youthful, friendly and full of positive energy. Dublin boasts remarkable monuments and a vast wealth of museums and art galleries worth seeing, while its streets bring together buildings of medieval, Georgian, Victorian and modern architecture. At the same time, offering hundreds of pubs where Guinness flows freely, as well as restaurants and many music events, the Irish capital wont let you get bored for a single moment.
You can easily explore the city on foot and take in many interesting sights even over a single weekend. However, we recommend dedicating 3-4 days to discover everything Dublin has to offer, leaving a little time for a day trip outside the city.
Trinity College
Trinity College Dublin, one of the oldest universities in Europe, is home to one of the countrys greatest cultural treasures: the famed Book of Kells, a 9th-century religious manuscript with stunning illuminations. Visitors can see the ancient manuscript up close in the Old Library and then admire the Long Room, one of the most beautiful libraries in the world. At the moment something unique is happening: about 200,000 books are being carefully removed from the library as part of the buildings major renovation. Those who visit now will have the chance to witness this rare and historic phase of the Old Librarys restoration project.
Guinness Storehouse
Guinness is more than just a beer - and youll see that during your visit to the seven-storey Guinness Storehouse. There youll learn how the famous beer is brewed, the role the company played in Dublins development, and how it became the global brand it is today. While its certainly interesting to see how Guinness is made, at the end of your visit you can also taste it in the Gravity Bar on the top floor, taking in panoramic views of Dublin.
Kilmainham Gaol
Irelands struggle for independence was long, bloody and full of upheaval - and this prison in the west of Dublin played a significant role for almost 150 years. Many revolutionaries and freedom fighters were imprisoned in its cells. The countrys strictest prison closed in 1924, and today it operates as a museum with a fascinating exhibition on the history of Irish nationalism. The guided tour through the dark corridors and austere cells is an intense and unforgettable experience. Tip: Its best to book tickets online, because tours often sell out.
National Museum of Ireland
The countrys most important cultural institution is the National Museum of Ireland, which has four branches across the country – three of them are in Dublin. The most important is the Archaeology branch on Kildare Street, where an impressive collection of Celtic and early Christian gold artefacts is on display. There youll also find the famous "bog bodies" – Iron Age human bodies preserved in peat bogs, in varying states of preservation. On the other side of the River Liffey, near the quays, is the Decorative Arts and History branch, housed in an 18th-century barracks complex. On Merrion Square is the Museum of Natural History, known to locals as the Dead Zoo, due to the numerous taxidermied animal exhibits.
Saint Patrick’s Cathedral
Saint Patrick’s Cathedral is one of Dublins most famous landmarks. Founded in 1191, today it is one of the few medieval buildings preserved in the city. The cathedral has been part of Irelands history for more than 800 years. It is dedicated to the countrys patron saint and was built on the spot where, according to tradition, Saint Patrick baptized the first Christian faithful about 1,500 years ago.
Dublin Castle
Dublin Castle was built in the 13th century on the ruins of an old Viking settlement. For centuries it was the administrative center of British power in Ireland, while today it is the place where the countrys presidents are inaugurated. Its buildings have witnessed many historic moments and remain one of Dublins most iconic sites. The castle sits in the heart of the city, but its entrance can easily be missed if youre not careful: it is set just back from the busy Dame Street.
Temple Bar
Dublin is famed for its pubs, and the most well-known spot for visitors from around the world is Temple Bar or, in other words, the citys nightlife neighborhood. Almost every day of the week the areas cobbled streets are packed with large groups of locals and tourists enjoying their beer. Of course, many pubs are more touristy than authentic. However, a stroll through Temple Bar is a must on a first visit to Dublin.
St. Stephen’s Green
St. Stephen’s Green is a beautiful green space in the heart of the city and within easy reach of Trinity College. This Victorian-era public park is filled with flowerbeds, fountains and statues dedicated to historical figures. Its the ideal spot to grab a coffee to go and unwind while watching the city go by.
Phoenix Park
For a relatively small European capital, Phoenix Park, which lies just outside the city center, north of the River Liffey, is truly vast. This park is home to around 600 deer. They were introduced in the 17th century for hunting, but today they live peacefully and can often be seen roaming there. Morning is the best time to spot them. Tip: Given the parks large size, renting a bicycle is a great idea for exploring it.
