Explore Dublin
About Dublin
The lively city of Dublin has been drawing visitors for years. Dublin was founded during the Viking era, and its streets are lined with historical landmarks, odes to famous cultural heroes, and traditional Irish music. With its friendly people, intimate Irish pubs, cobblestone streets, and towering cathedrals, a trip to the capital of Ireland should be on everyone’s bucket list.
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Best Time To visit
The best time to visit Dublin, Ireland, is between April and August. The lively events bring a crowd when the weather is nice in the summer. Visit Dublin in April or May for slightly cooler weather with fewer crowds.
Christmas in Dublin is a must for holiday lovers. The Christmas markets and cheerful locals make Dublin a magical place to visit in December
What to expect
One of the best things to do in Dublin is to go on a bus or walking tour of the city. While Dublin is relatively small, there’s still a lot to see.
Every visitor to Dublin will want to visit the historic architecture throughout the city. Dublin Castle, Trinity College, and St. Patrick’s Cathedral are famous Ireland landmarks.
You’ll discover through the museums and landmarks the history of Ireland. The Kilmainham Gaol used to be a prison . . . .
that housed some of the most notorious criminals in Ireland’s history. Today it’s a museum run by the Office of Public Works. The National Museum of Ireland has multiple museums, each focusing on something different. They’re free to visit. With its extensive collection of history, archaeology, natural life, and more, it’s one of the best free things to do in Dublin. A trip to Dublin would be incomplete without a visit to the Guinness Brewery, founded in 1759. Tour the facilities that are set up much like a museum. Try some Guinness while taking in the views of Dublin — you’ll find that the beer doesn’t taste the same as draft and bottled varieties overseas. Another historical drinking establishment is The Temple Bar. The bright red bar was founded in the 1300s. It’s mostly a tourist attraction today, but worth stopping by.
The Irish love a good drink, and a tour of the Old Jameson Distillery is sure to be interesting. Although it’s no longer in use, tours include the history, distilling process, and tastings. While you’re at it, don’t forget to stop at a local bar even if you don’t drink. The nightlife scene in Dublin is world-renowned for its traditional and modern music — it’s not difficult to catch a concert at a pub any day of the week.
The real draw to Dublin is its people. Locals are known for their friendly demeanor. Don’t be afraid to chat with a Dubliner at a pub while enjoying Guinness and lively Irish music.
One of the best day trips from Dublin is to the Cliffs of Moher, 3 hours away and near Galway. The abrupt cliffs are 700 feet to the Atlantic Ocean below and have been featured in Harry Potter, The Princess Bride, and Leap Year.
You’ll also want to visit the many abandoned castles in Ireland, like the Rock of Cashel, that’s 2 hours from Dublin. If you’re a Game of Thrones lover and want to visit Northern Ireland, a trip to Dunluce Castle — three hours from Dublin — should be on your list. And if you’re wondering if there are any castles in Dublin, Ireland, to stay in, you’re in luck! Clontarf Castle in Dublin is a luxury Irish castle just ten minutes from the city center. With guards greeting you at the door, glowing lanterns, and ivy-lined turrets, you’ll love staying in this elegant 1172 Dublin landmark.
Things to know
If you’re wondering if Dublin is safe to visit as a major city, you wouldn’t be the first. While Dublin is heavily populated, crime is relatively low. The worst thing that’s still unlikely to happen is being pickpocketed. Keep standard precautions in mind, like avoiding non-tourist areas at night and carrying wads of cash, and you should be fine.
Dublin food is known for its Irish comfort, with carb-rich meals that are sure to warm you up.
From Irish stews to Boxty to fish and chips, you won’t go hungry in Ireland. If you’re wondering if Dublin is vegan-friendly, you’ll be surprised by the number of plant-based options available in the Irish capital. Dublin was rated one of the most vegan-friendly places in the world. Try Cornucopia, a plant-based staple for forty years. The seasonal menus change regularly, but there’s something for everyone. Kale + Coco and Veggie Vibe Cafe serve some of the best breakfasts in Dublin with healthy and traditional Irish vegan takes.
After sightseeing, you’ll want to relax in Dublin. The Spa at The Merrion Hotel is an updated historical building with hand-painted murals decorating the walls and soft Irish fabrics. They offer all the treatments you’d expect at a luxury spa, including Indian head massage.
The Healing Forest is just outside Dublin and is the only forest dedicated to therapeutic purposes. You can enjoy their range of services, including Reiki and forest bathing, designed to help you connect and rejuvenate in Ireland.
how to get around
Dublin is easy to get around on foot, by bike, or with public transit. Although Dublin has no subway, its bus, train, and tram system is extensive. There are bike-sharing systems around the city as well. Unfortunately, there are no private Ubers in Dublin, so stick with hailing regular taxis or book a cab from the Uber app.
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