Dublin is a city full of charm, history and entertainment, with plenty of green and aquatic areas to discover. Wander the streets and enjoy scenic strolls by the river, stay up until the early hours drinking Guinness at the pubs and soak in its culture while mixing with the super friendly locals. If the idea of a trip to Dublin gets you excited, you’ve come to the right place. Read on and discover the best way to explore the capital of Ireland.
Guinness Storehouse
It’s not a real trip to Dublin without a visit to the Guinness Storehouse. The headquarters of Ireland’s most famous beer is a place where you can soak up the history behind this iconic brand while enjoying a pint or two. There are three bars, three restaurants, classes and tastings on offer for enthusiasts who want to embrace the world of Guinness.
The Spire of Dublin
Get your camera at the ready and head to The Spire of Dublin. It’s one of the most recognisable – and easiest to spot – landmarks in the city, standing an impressive 120 metres above ground. The Spire of Dublin comprises a completely stainless-steel structure and is the perfect photo opportunity for anyone who wants to enhance their social media account with stylish shots of one of Dublin’s most prominent landmarks.
Dublin Castle
Once the seat of power for British rule for over 700 years, Dublin Castle was built in 1204 and is filled with history. Today, it’s a popular tourist attraction with its Gerogan-era design and manicured castle gardens. There are guided tours available, where you can learn the history of the castle. The tour also includes a trip to Dublin’s oldest pub.
Moore Street Market
After arriving in Dublin, which you can do by booking your trip with Ferryscanner, why not make Moore Street Market one of your first stops? This open-air produce and flower market has vendors lining both sides of the cobblestone streets, selling everything from local produce to imported items. Moore Street Market is a throwback to the past, giving you the chance to relive life in Old Dublin.
Get back to nature at Phoenix Park
There are loads of green spaces in Dublin, including Phoenix Park. This walled green area is about 1,700 acres and features Dublin Zoo, the Wellington Monument, a sports field and the residencies for the Presidential and US Ambassador. It’s also a great place for a stroll and a picnic during the warmer months of the year.
The Book of Kells
The Book of Kells is arguably Dublin’s most important artefact. It’s a ninth-century manuscript detailing the four gospels of the life of Jesus Christ. It has 340 folios made from prepared calfskin, with the artists using mineral pigments like red lead, copper and lapis lazuli to create symbols that represent the Four Evangelists (Matthew, Mark, Luke and John). Take a guided tour into Trinity College Dublin’s Old Library to see the manuscript up close and personal.
Grafton Street
One of Dublin’s two primary pedestrian shopping centres, Grafton Street is entirely car-free, so you can wander at your own leisure. It’s busy and buzzing, with buskers performing live music, shops to explore and people, lots of people. It almost feels claustrophobic, but that’s part of Grafton Street’s charm – it’s the heartbeat of Dublin.
Exploring Dublin
There are so many great things to do and see in Dublin. You really are spoiled for choice and will never tire of discovering a new part of the city. If you’re going for a short city break, then use our list as inspiration and fall in love with Dublin and its many charms.