Attractions
Dublin has plenty of attractions to keep any traveler busy. From a diverse selection of museums, such as the National Museum of Ireland, the National Gallery of Ireland, and the Irish Museum of Modern Art, to beautiful parks and gardens, such as Phoenix Park and Merrion Square, there is something for everyone in Dublin.
Let’s take a look at some of the best attractions in the city:
Dublin Castle
Dublin Castle is the heart of historic Dublin, located in the city’s center on the south side of the River Liffey. Its imposing medieval structure was first built in 1204 as an outpost of British rule and was later remodeled by 18th-century English architects. It served as a seat of government up until 1922 when it was handed over to the Irish Free State.
Today, this castle hosts many important events, such as state visits and inaugurations.
Having two courtyards, a garden, and a chapel, Dublin Castle features several fascinating attractions that offer visitors insight into Ireland’s history and its current role in international affairs. These include:
- The State Apartments comprise 17 rooms that have been used to receive dignitaries.
- The Chester Beatty Library houses some of the world’s most valuable literary pieces.
- An incredible architecture tour where guests get a glimpse into 17th-century-style buildings.
- St Patrick’s Hall is used for presidential inaugural ceremonies.
Visitors can also take part in daily guided tours around this stunning castle that educates on its pages from Ireland’s past.
National Gallery of Ireland
The National Gallery of Ireland is located in the heart of Dublin and features a range of artwork spanning centuries, including Irish and European masters. Established in 1854, the Gallery allows visitors to explore the collection and familiarize themselves with Ireland’s rich cultural history. It houses one of the country’s finest collections of Irish art and is regularly visited by scholars, students, tourists, and passionate art lovers.
The collection covers various visuals, from 15th-century Italian Renaissance paintings and 17th-century Dutch masterpieces to modern works from contemporary Irish artists.
The Gallery also offers various other activities, such as interactive displays through their Large Exhibitions program and workshops for adults, families, and those who may not have prior knowledge or experience in visual arts or culture. Furthermore, lectures are available on certain themes specific to particular periods at different times for those wanting to delve deeper into the history behind each piece presented on display.
Located just off Merrion Square Park, The National Gallery of Ireland is open daily (except on public holidays) from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm. It offers free admission for all visitors, making it an affordable attraction for all tourists exploring Dublin city’s attractions.
Trinity College Dublin
Trinity College Dublin is one of the oldest universities in the world and is an integral part of Dublin’s literary, academic, and cultural history. An eighteenth-century building in the heart of Dublin City Centre, it houses some of Ireland’s oldest and finest collections, such as manuscript books, rare prints, maps, classical art, and sculpture.
Trinity College offers several activities to visitors, such as guided tours around the campus, which include a beautiful green park; Georgian architecture; libraries; a dining hall; a bookshop, and more.
The Long Room Library at Trinity College is home to over 200000 books, and its most famous volume is The Book of Kells. The Book of Kells exhibit offers visitors an interactive audio-visual experience with manuscripts from over 1000 years ago.
Other attractions at Trinity College include its highly acclaimed Science Gallery exhibition on innovative science subjects such as artificial intelligence, robotics, renewable energy sources, and medical technology. Visitors can also take a guided tour around the campus led by one built by past or present Trinity students. They can also take advantage of its outreach centers for adult learners, which offer courses on various topics, from media studies to research methods for business professionals. You will also find museum exhibitions based on Ireland’s history at the college’s curatorship department, open to the public year-round.
Shopping
Dublin, Ireland, is known for its shopping and retail scene. There is something for everyone, from small boutiques to the latest fashion trends. You can find designer clothing, vintage items, antique furniture, and unique souvenirs. So whether you are looking for a one-of-a-kind item or something unique, Dublin has you covered.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the options for shoppers in Dublin:
Grafton Street
Grafton Street is a popular shopping and tourist destination in the heart of Dublin, Ireland. The pedestrianized street runs southward from St Stephen’s Green to College Green and includes numerous well-known stores, cafes & tourist attractions. Grafton Street is known for its retail outlets stocking the latest fashion, including Brown Thomas (Ireland’s premier department store), alongside numerous independent retailers.
The area also has a wide variety of cafes & restaurants, including Cafe Sol on Wicklow street, which serves cafe fare, Italian dishes, and delicious home baking. Grafton Street also boasts some of Dublin’s top Irish pubs, such as The Port House and Highlanes Bar & Restaurant, offering traditional Irish hospitality and great food.
Grafton street hosts numerous street performances throughout the year, allowing tourists to sample Irish music firsthand in the open air. So whether you’re looking for fashion, food, or entertainment, Grafton Street is just waiting for you!
Powerscourt Centre
Powerscourt Centre is an elegant, vibrant shopping and dining quarter in the heart of Dublin, Ireland. The historic Powerscourt Townhouse opened in 2006 and has delighted visitors with its fashion, food, and fun mix.
The center offers several clothing stores, including Hugo Boss, All Saints, and Coast for the fashion-conscious shopper; renowned retailers such as Brown Thomas for luxury items; and gift and toy stores like Hamleys. In addition, shoe outlets like Clarks Style Studio are available for those looking to get a perfect fit.
The Powerscourt Centre boasts a wide array of eateries offering something to suit all tastes – from fine dining experiences at eateries like Cannonball Restaurant & Bar to casual spots such as Kojawan Sushi or Brother Hubbard Cafe. Cafés such as Caffè Nero are perfect for relaxing over coffee while admiring the city views from their unique balcony seating area. If you are after something sweet to fuel your shopping experience, Gourmet Food Hall provides delicious treats and great views of St Stephens Green Park.
For those looking for a unique souvenir or treat to take home with them from Dublin City Centre, there is also a Shopping Gallery full of artisanal craft makers selling one-of-a-kind gifts – perfect for giving that extra special something back home. So whether searching for luxury items or simply window shopping around one of the most prestigious areas in Dublin City Centre – make sure to check out the Powerscourt Centre!
Jervis Shopping Centre
Jervis Shopping Centre is in the heart of Dublin, offering many shops, restaurants, and services. With over 80 stores offering high-end fashion, beauty, home accessories, and other amenities and entertainment options, it’s the perfect place to find what you want.
The center is laid over four floors, with popular brands such as H&M and Zara spread throughout the top floors. The basement level houses one of Dublin’s best-kept fashion secrets, Florence & Kemp – an award-winning boutique specializing in mid-level designer clothing.
A broad selection of eateries on the ground floor, from grab-go snacks to sit-down restaurant experiences. Amongst them are Dún Rynton – a café inspired by the coastal lifestyle, and Delahunt – for fine Irish dining. Global Pizza Co – a trendy pizzeria serving up delicious pizzas amongst other food journeys and popular chain Starbucks Coffee.
Upstairs, even more unique stores are laid out, including giftware havens such as Serendipity in Dublin, offering heartfelt ideas for special occasions or everyday tokens that promise to make someone sparkle! Customers can also find craft beer at Metro Ashtons Joynt or explore scent enhancements at Sarah May Aromatic Studio, with products made exclusively using natural ingredients sourced in Ireland. There truly is something for everyone!
For visitors’ convenience Jervis also has tourist information available at their concierge desk on Level 1, where customers can learn about the history of Dublin and explore other hidden gems this great city has to offer. Jervis Centre also provides free Wi-Fi throughout all levels so customers can stay connected while discovering great finds from their favorite shops!
Nightlife
Dublin, Ireland, offers a plethora of nightlife options to explore. There is something for everyone, from rowdy pubs and bars to live music concerts. In addition, Dublin is known for having some friendliest locals who are always happy to show visitors the ropes. So, if you’re looking for a place to have a good time and make some memories, the Irish capital is the place to be.
Let’s take a look at some of the best options for nightlife in Dublin:
The Temple Bar
The Temple Bar is one of Dublin, Ireland’s most popular nightlife spots. Located in the heart of Temple Bar square, it’s the perfect spot for a night out. This area of town is known for its lively and vibrant atmosphere, and there’s plenty to check out while you’re in town.
The bar itself adheres to an old-school vibe with a relaxed atmosphere. The menu features over 100 different types of beer and whiskey, plus all the usual bar favorites too! Live music, open mic nights, and regular events ensure you’re never short of something to enjoy at The Temple Bar.
The pub has a cozy interior with wood paneling and vintage furniture, so it’s perfect for small groups or couples looking for a relaxing spot to hang out. And if you’re feeling adventurous, plenty of bars and clubs in the area cater to all tastes. So no matter what mood you’re in when night falls, Dublin offers something for everyone!
The Brazen Head
If you’re looking for a slice of Ireland’s history and a good time, look no further than The Brazen Head, located in the Liberties neighborhood of Dublin. It has been on the same site since 1198 and is reportedly Ireland’s oldest pub. It has served notable literary characters like James Joyce and Pulitzer Prize winner William Butler Yeats.
Today, The Brazen Head is just as lively as ever – enjoy live traditional Irish music every evening throughout the week and an open mic night on Sunday evenings. There are even special events throughout the year, such as the Limerick Rooms 60th Anniversary Party or the Waterford Whiskey tasting night.
Tasty traditional Irish dishes plus craft beers from all over Ireland can be found at The Brazen Head, proving why this pub continues to be one of Dublin’s most celebrated nightlife spots for over eight hundred years!
The Cobblestone
The Cobblestone is a cozy pub just north of Dublin’s city center known for its live music and traditional Irish atmosphere. It’s well-lit, but not glaringly so, with board games and books on the tables, making it a great conversation place. Live folk music can be heard every night of the week, and there’s even the occasional visitor from overseas.
The renowned Guinness offerings are never-ending, and customers can choose from an extensive range of craft beers brewed in Ireland. In addition, the menu features delicious traditional fares such as shepherd’s pie, bangers and mash, Irish stew, burgers, and fish dishes that pair perfectly with your chosen beverage.
Whether you’re looking for great conversation or looking to dance on one of their two “stomping floors” late into the night – The Cobblestone is worth checking out!
Restaurants
Dublin, Ireland, is a city with various culinary experiences and flavors. So whether you’re looking for something traditional or a little more exotic, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this vibrant and exciting city.
From classic Irish pubs to upscale eateries, here are some of the restaurants in Dublin that you won’t want to miss:
Chapter One
Dublin is a vibrant and bustling city with plenty of things to do and unique places to eat. From classic pubs to modern restaurants, Dublin offers various culinary experiences. So whether you are looking for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, there is something in Dublin for every taste and budget.
This guide outlines some of Dublin’s best restaurants, pubs, and cafes. Each establishment offers its atmosphere and appeal – the only thing all establishments have in common is quality cuisine. From fine dining to budget-friendly options, this guide highlights Dublin’s best culinary experiences so you can enjoy visiting one of Ireland’s finest cities.
- Athena’s Greek Taverna is a popular spot near Stephen’s Green Park in downtown Dublin. This restaurant specializes in Greek cuisine featuring traditional dishes such as dolmades, souvlaki, and moussaka made with fresh ingredients. Athena’s also has an extensive wine list featuring bottles from Greece, Spain, and Italy and local craft beer selections!
- If you’re looking for more laid-back dining options while still enjoying delicious food, Banka on O’Connell Street may be the ideal place. This cozy café features an eclectic menu featuring dishes like fish tacos, pulled pork sandwiches, and crispy French fries with a balsamic glaze dipping sauce, all with an unexpectedly innovative twist!
- Alternatively, Sister Sadie’s Café Bar, located in Temple Bar, boasts one of the most varied menus across all of Dublin’s restaurants, with something for everyone, including small plates like laminated macaroons or grass-fed beef burgers served alongside the option for full-size steaks & chops cooked over their open charcoal grill flame section!
The Winding Stair
The Winding Stair is a popular restaurant in Dublin, Ireland. Located on Ormond Quay Lower and close to other tourist attractions, the Winding Stair provides a unique dining experience. The restaurant specializes in regional Irish cuisine, and its menu is inspired by seasonal ingredients sourced locally. The intimate space is known for its comforting atmosphere and modern decor.
The Winding Stair’s offerings include starters like the Smoked Mackerel with horseradish cream and pickled fennel and mains like the Dublin Bay Prawn Curry or the locally sourced fish of the day served with Jerusalem artichoke mash and buttered kale. If you’re looking for something sweet, don’t miss out on the Chocolate Brownie served with Irish whiskey ice cream. On Sundays from 12 pm to 3 pm, you can enjoy a delicious Sunday Roast complete with all the trimmings. The restaurant also has a selection of craft beers and wines to complement your meal.
At The Winding Stair, you can enjoy fresh seasonal produce paired with excellent service at reasonable prices – perfect for experiencing delicious Irish cuisine on a budget!
The Woollen Mills
The Woollen Mills is one of the most popular restaurants in Dublin, offering locals and visitors a unique Irish dining experience. Set in a red brick building from 1881, this restaurant blends traditional decor with modern artwork and trinkets. The atmosphere is inviting and relaxed, with two floors boasting tall glass doors, an open-plan kitchen, and plenty of natural light.
Their menu focuses on local produce and flavors, from sustainable seafood to locally sourced vegetables. All dishes are made from scratch with seasonal ingredients.
If you’re looking for a special lunch or dinner with friends or family, The Woollen Mills has something for everyone. Choose from lunch classics, including their famous Fish Pie or Shepherd’s Pie – both served with homemade pesto mash – and lighter snacks like warm focaccia with butterbean hummus, roasted onions, and mushrooms or an ever-changing selection of creamy goats cheese tartlets.
Their dinner menu changes daily but often highlights seasonal mains like Cork scallop risotto with crispy potato straws or charcoal-fired mackerel fillets served on barley risotto cake with lemon mayo.
The Woollen Mills also offers a wide range of craft beers and spirits – perfect for rounding off any evening meal – along with a fantastic selection of homemade desserts like pumpkin pie tartlets served warm on oatcake crusts.
Whether you’re heading out for a leisurely lunch or a special dinner event, The Woollen Mills offers delicious Irish cuisine worth coming back for again and again!
Activities
Dublin, Ireland, is a vibrant city full of history and culture, and there are many activities you can do to experience the best of it. From visiting the famous Guinness Storehouse to walking around the city, Dublin has something to offer everyone.
In this section, we’ll explore some of the most popular activities and attractions to do while in Dublin:
Dublin Zoo
Dublin Zoo is the perfect way to spend a fun and educational day with family and friends in Dublin, Ireland. Located 5 kilometers from the city’s center, Dublin Zoo offers visitors a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with animals worldwide.
The zoo features over 400 mammals, birds, and reptiles, carefully housed in 110 acres of beautiful parkland. Feeding sessions throughout the day allow visitors to watch elephants, hippos, gorillas, and other exciting creatures being fed by expert zookeepers. For a more hands-on experience, visitors can also take part in daily animal shows such as:
- Elephant Training
- Meerkat Magic
- Planet Penguin
Above all else, Dublin Zoo is committed to promoting an appreciation for wildlife conservation by providing education programs based on scientific research.
Dublin Ghostbus Tour
The Dublin Ghostbus Tour is a unique mixture of theatre, history, and mystery in the heart of Dublin. The tour whisks passengers around some of the city’s spookiest sites and unearths stories of tragedy and hauntings. Taking place on an infamous theatrically-lit vintage bus, it reveals the darker side of Dublin’s past.
Discover stories ranging from vengeful ghosts to vampire-like creatures alongside Irish superstitions such as black cats, banshees, and poitín. Learn about Ireland’s legends, such as witches, highwaymen, cursed monks, and zombie soldiers, as you sit back and take in your surroundings on board the luxury coach used by royalty a century ago.
Whether you are interested in local folklore or just looking for an exciting evening out with friends or family, The Dublin Ghostbus Tour has something for everyone!
Guinness Storehouse Tour
The Guinness Storehouse is located in the heart of St. James’s Gate Brewery, where the iconic stout has been made since 1759. The impressive building is shaped like a giant pint glass, and visitors can explore everything there is to know about Guinness beer on a self-guided tour through an interactive museum and exhibition.
The historic venue offers an immersive experience that covers the beer-making process and its impact on Irish culture. Guests can marvel at original artifacts related to Arthur Guinness, sample beer straight from the cask in Connoisseur Bar, and even learn how to pour the perfect pint of Guinness in a themed masterclass.
Situated across seven floors, each containing unique displays, you’ll find out why Guinness became one of Ireland’s most popular drinks and learn firsthand how it changed the social fabric of Dublin city throughout history. There’s also a range of unique gifts to take away as souvenirs from your visit!