There’s a reason why Dublin is one of the most loved cities in the world. Residents and visitors alike quickly become captivated by the unique spirit of this city, and anyone who spends any time in this enchanting community quickly discovers why. Home to a thriving modern culture, interlaced with glimmers of its rich history, there’s a wealth of experiences that await anyone visiting Dublin.
dublin – what’s it all about?
As the capital of Ireland, Dublin is where Irish history meets global cultures, and around every corner, you’ll find a new side of Dublin to discover. Whether it’s breathtaking academic architecture, iconic nightlife, or unique dining experiences, there’s so much to see and do in this fantastic city.
must-see attractions in dublin
little museum of dublin
Considered by many to be the number one museum in the city, the Little Museum of Dublin brings a unique twist to the traditional museum format. The exhibits showcase items donated by ordinary people, documenting the reality of life over the last few centuries. Learn more about the historic events that have shaken this city, as well as the popular culture that took over everyday Dublin life.
kilmainham gaol
To learn more about the darker side of Dublin’s history, immerse yourself in the stories of Kilmainham Gaol. As a location that held men, women and children over a span of 100 years, the Gaol contains its fair share of Dublin’s history. Explore the Gaol and discover the stories of the people that were held here, from ordinary criminals to Irish independence fighters.
guinness storehouse
No trip to Dublin would be complete without a glass of Guinness. And no glass of Guinness tastes better than one poured straight from the original Guinness storehouse. Here, you can learn more about the process behind every glass of Guinness, as you explore each of the seven floors in the 300 year old building. Finish your tour in the Gravity Bar, and enjoy your well earned glass of Guinness as you look over the skyline of Dublin city.
irish whiskey museum
If you’re looking to sample a slightly sharper Irish experience, visit the Irish whiskey museum to learn more about the history of this well loved spirit. Discover Irish whiskey through the ages, and try your hand at whiskey tasting to finish your visit.
history
viking and medieval
Invaded in the 9th century, the city of Dublin has an impressive Viking past, with traces of its invasion that are still easy to spot today. Around Temple Bar, in particular, the original mediaeval cobbled streets are still visible. If you go into Lidl on Camden Street, you’ll even see a glass floor where you can see the original Viking buildings underneath you whilst you shop. To really experience Dublin’s viking history, we’d recommend taking the Viking Boat Tour around the dock and the bay.
edwardian and georgian
Following the reign of Henry VIII, the split of the church and the closing of the monasteries, the 17th century saw Dublin ruled by a new Protestant English minority in the Kingdom of Ireland. Despite the oppressive social rule, the city’s industry prospered, due to its role as a thriving port town. You can still see lavish Georgian townhouses and Edwardian facades as you explore the city today.
20th century
Dublin played a significant role in the shaping of Ireland’s history throughout the 20th century and beyond. In 1916, it saw the famous rising take place throughout the city, and even today, some bullet holes can still be seen in some of the facades of the city centre buildings. The city was also the site of the 1919 War of Independence, followed by the signing of the 1922 Anglo-Irish treaty just years later.
food and drink
coddle
For a warming Dublin dish, it doesn’t get much more traditional than coddle. Originally created as a way to use up kitchen leftovers, coddle is normally prepared by layering sliced pork sausages with potatoes, onions, herbs, and occasionally, barley.
fresh seafood
Owing to its sea-side location, Dublin is where you’ll find some of the freshest seafood. From prawns to Atlantic salmon, crabs, and even native oysters, in Dublin you can enjoy freshly caught seafood prepared to perfection.
guinness
There’s no more iconic drink in Ireland than a glass of Guinness. Originally brewed in Dublin in the 18th century, Guinness is widely loved across the world for its malty sweetness, and flavours of coffee and chocolate.
poitín
Poitín (pronounced poteen or pocheen) is a lesser known Dublin beverage, often referred to as Irish moonshine. This sharp spirit was originally made of potatoes and barley, and brewed over peat fires in rural villages. Today, you can sample a glass of poitín in most Dublin bars and pubs.
where to try dublin food and drink
kehoe’s pub
Located on Anne Street, Kehoe’s is perfect for those looking to sample a more traditional location for a drink in Dublin, without the crowds of tourists and tourist-trap price tags.
glover’s alley
For those looking for some more fine dining options in the city of Dublin, we’d highly recommend Glover’s Alley, located in the Fitzwilliam Hotel. Overlooking the verdant Stephen’s green, here guests will enjoy a luxurious dining experience through French influenced dishes.
bambino
For a quick bite on the go, look no further than Bambino. Here, pick up delicious pizza by the slice, so you can refuel on the go as you explore the city.
john mulligan’s
This brilliant old boozer is a cultural institution, established in 1782 and in its current location since 1854. A drink (or more) here is like attending liquid services at a most sacred, secular shrine. John F Kennedy paid his respects in 1945, when he joined the cast of regulars that seems barely to have changed since.
the temple bar
This is an iconic Irish pub that should not be missed when visiting the city.The pub is located in the heart of Temple Bar, a vibrant riverside neighbourhood, spread over cobbled pedestrian lanes. Crowded pubs host live folk music and DJ sets, and diners pack restaurants serving Asian, American and Irish cuisine.
beyond the city – places on the doorstep worth visiting dublin
howth
Just east of central Dublin you’ll find the village of Howth. Here, you can explore the 15th-century Howth Castle, and see the stunning rhododendron gardens. Or, visit the transport museum, and learn more about the history of the local tram. For nature lovers, why not walk through the ruins of the mediaeval St. Mary’s Abbey, before climbing the cliff top trail to enjoy the sea views over the cliff path.
dublin bay
To immerse yourself in the seaside experience, we recommend taking a day trip to Dún Laoghaire, the thriving marina in Dublin Bay. Offering coastal walks and sea views with plenty of mountain backdrops along the way too, finish off your day in Dublin Bay by enjoying some of the fresh seafood at one of the many seafront restaurants and bars.
kilkenny
For a day trip from Dublin that takes you a little further afield, we’d recommend heading inland towards the town of Kilkenny. This charming town is filled with cosy pubs, cafes, and even a few art galleries, perfect for a day of exploring Ireland. History lovers will certainly enjoy an afternoon at Kilkenny Castle. Tour the Anglo-Norman architecture and decor, before getting some Irish fresh air in the castle gardens and estate.
example itinerary
Not sure how to fit in the best of Dublin in just one day? Take a look at our example itinerary to explore the city.
- Trinity College
Start off the day by visiting Trinity College, to discover The Book of Kells and the Old Library containing the gospels of the New Testament, elaborately and painstakingly illustrated by the Irish monks in the Dark Ages.
- Coffee stop at Butler’s chocolate cafes
Created in 1998 as a place for those exploring Dublin to escape from the hustle and bustle to enjoy a sweet treat and a delicious cup of coffee, Butler’s chocolate cafe still serves that purpose today. After exploring the college, stop into the cafe to sample the highest quality coffee, tea and chocolate beverages in stylish, welcoming surroundings.
- Dublin Castle
Located just off Dame Street you’ll find Dublin Castle. A former motte-and-bailey castle, it was selected for its position at the highest point of central Dublin. Here, visitors can explore the castle, and learn more about the role the castle played in Dublin’s history and society over the years.
- IMMA
The Irish Museum of Modern Art, also known as IMMA, displays some of the best modern and contemporary art from Irish and global artists alike. The collection includes work from the likes of Marina Abramović, Joseph Cornell, and Roy Lichtenstein.
- Botanic Gardens
After immersing yourself in academia and art, why not spend the afternoon outdoors, and escape from the hustle and bustle of Dublin life at the National Botanic Gardens. The 19.5 hectares are home to plant species from all over the world, and provide a welcome oasis of peace and quiet amongst a busy day exploring Dublin.
practical information
Now that you know what you want to be getting up to in Dublin, let’s take a look at some of the practical information you might need to know before you start your Irish adventure.
public transport in dublin
Dublin is small enough that generally, you can walk wherever you need to go without needing a car. But if you want to go a little further afield, there’s a good bus and tram system that operates in the city.
travelling to dublin
Dublin is very easy to reach, both from different parts of Ireland, Northern Ireland, and internationally. A popular and well serviced airport sits just to the north of the city, and is connected to 180 destinations and 40 countries. It takes around 30 minutes to get from the airport to the city centre, using the Dublin express for just €8.
You can also access Dublin by ferry from England, France and Wales.
local currency
The currency used in the Republic of Ireland and in Dublin is the euro (€).
final thoughts
Dublin is a truly unique and incredible city. If you really want to experience the real Dublin, our best piece of advice would be to venture there yourself, and discover why so many people fall in love with the city.
commonly asked questions
how do i get from dublin airport to the city centre?
You can take a taxi, use public buses like the Airlink Express or the Dublin Bus, or opt for a shuttle service. The journey typically takes around 30-45 minutes depending on traffic.
is public transportation in dublin good?
Yes, Dublin has a reliable public transportation system including buses, trams (Luas), and trains (DART). There are also bike rental services and taxis readily available.
is dublin a walkable city?
Yes, many of Dublin’s main attractions are within walking distance of each other, especially in the city centre.
what is the tipping etiquette in dublin?
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected. If service is not included on your bill, it’s customary to leave a tip between 10-15%.
what electrical outlets are used in dublin?
Ireland uses type G electrical outlets (the same as the UK).
