A small capital with a huge reputation and a cosmopolitan outlook, Dublin has a mix of heritage and hedonism that will not disappoint. There is plenty to do in Dublin. Please see some of the top attractions below.
Make sure to also spend a day or more to see the beautiful lush green countryside that Ireland is known for! Jennifer-Anne's family is from Western Ireland near Connemara, famous for its countryside as well as the Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden. Also in Western Ireland, is the beautiful, picturesque Aran Islands, charming heritage town of Westport, melodic and vibrant Galway, and the infamous, stunning Cliffs of Moher.
Trinity College Dublin is one of Ireland's top universities and can be found in the heart of Dublin. The impressive university grounds are home to many beautiful gardens and ancient buildings, making this a great place to simply wander and soak up the atmosphere. Trinity College Dublin regularly features on lists of the world's most beautiful universities. Additionally, the library of Trinity College is home to over 5 million volumes, making it one of Ireland's most important cultural treasures
The Book of Kells is a beautiful illuminated manuscript dating back to the 800s AD. It is housed in Trinity College in Dublin city centre and is one of Ireland's most popular tourist attractions. The intricate drawings and ornaments are a testament to the incredible craftsmanship of medieval Irish monks. Despite being in the city centre, it can be quite tranquil and a major draw for tourists.
The National Museum of Ireland - Natural History, also known as the Dead Zoo, is a museum in Dublin that showcases stuffed and mounted animals from the 19th century. Situated on Merrion Square, this branch of the National Museum of Ireland houses extensive exhibits of taxidermy animals, covering various fields such as geology and zoology. It emphasizes the natural wonders found in Ireland and includes an exhibition on Mammals of the World.
The Guinness Storehouse is a famous tourist attraction in Dublin, Ireland that is home to the world's largest collection of Guinnesses. The building was originally built as part of a complex that also included an office block, a hotel and a cinema. It has since been converted into a museum and houses the world's largest collection of Guinnesses, as well as other beers from around the world.
Temple Bar is a bustling neighborhood that sits beside the river, filled with cobblestone pedestrian lanes. The area is renowned for its crowded pubs where live music and DJ sets are played, as well as its diverse dining options including Irish, Asian, and American cuisine. Visitors can also explore local designer boutiques that offer unique clothing and crafts. The National Photographic Archive showcases Ireland's historical past while contemporary art can be found at Project Arts Centre and Temple Bar Gallery + Studios.
The National Gallery of Ireland is a vast collection of European art from the 14th to the 21st century, encompassing various schools. Situated in Dublin's Merrion Square West, this gallery showcases works by renowned artists like Van Gogh, Caravaggio, and Picasso alongside pieces from Irish legends such as Jack Butler Yeats. Room 14 features Yeats' expressive painting "The Liffey Swim," depicting spectators observing a race on Dublin's famous river.
Dublin Castle, a historic establishment dating back to 1204, contains two museums, cafes, gardens, state rooms, and a library. It is situated in the heart of Dublin and offers visitors a warm welcome. Despite being the capital of Ireland, Dublin has a compact and village-like atmosphere that makes it easily navigable on foot. The city's architecture is both spectacular and charmingly mismatched, providing great character along with its lively pub scene and rich history.
This large, green park is located in the heart of Dublin and is perfect for a relaxing afternoon. The park features a beautiful ornamental lake, waterfall, sculptures and a children's playground. It has been maintained in its original Victorian layout with extensive perimeter tree and shrub planting, spectacular spring and summer Victorian bedding.
The Irish Whiskey Museum is a great place to learn all about the history of whiskey and the process that goes into making it. They have interactive exhibits, along with a tasting at the end, so you can get a taste of some different whiskeys.
If you're interested in whiskey, the Teeling Whiskey Distillery is a great option to check out. There's a distillery tour and tasting that's free for Dublin Pass holders, and other experiences like the Irish Whiskey Museum Experience (which costs money) are also available. The visitor center has informative displays about whiskey production and the history of Dublin's distilling scene.
The EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum is an interactive experience about the history and impact of Irish expats around the world. It's located in the vaults of Dublin's iconic chq building, and it tells the story of 10 million people who left Ireland for a new life in other countries.
Bronze statue of a fictional fishmonger named Molly Malone, the star of a well-known Irish song. The statue symbolizes the city's history, working class, and cultural heritage. It is a popular tourist attraction and a beloved symbol of Dublin. People rub the statue, particularly her breasts, for good luck, ensure a return to Dublin, or improve their love life.
The Cathedral of Saint Patrick in Dublin is one of the most important religious landmarks in Ireland, and has been a part of the country's history for over 800 years. It is the largest cathedral in Ireland and is home to many beautiful stained glass windows, marble statues, and medieval tiles. The cathedral also plays an important role in literary pilgrimage, as Jonathan Swift once served as dean here.
The Umbrellas Dublin is a vibrant art installation located in the heart of Dublin. This eye-catching display features a canopy of colorful umbrellas suspended above Anne's Lane, creating a whimsical and picturesque scene. It has become a popular spot for both locals and tourists to capture photos. The installation adds a splash of color to the urban landscape and is a testament to Dublin's creative spirit.
Phoenix Park, situated in Dublin, is a vast 708-hectare park that serves as a popular recreational area. It boasts various attractions such as a zoo, Victorian flower gardens, and a fort. Known as "Dublin's playground," the park encompasses 707 hectares of parkland enclosed by an 11km perimeter wall, making it one of Europe's largest enclosed green spaces.
The National Botanic Gardens of Ireland are a spacious and beautiful green area with various sections, including naturalistic areas, formal gardens, an arboretum, and a Victorian palm house. This renowned garden in Dublin is known for its tranquility and attractiveness. Visitors can freely explore the diverse flora and fauna native to Ireland while appreciating the water features, magnificent greenhouses, and stunning Rose Garden during the summer season.