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Mar 17, 2022

The Best of Dublin

The Best of Dublin

Dublin, Ireland’s iconic capital city, is one of Europe’s primary weekend breaks, party destinations, and cultural centers. Not only is Dublin rooted in rich history, but it’s also home to countless incredible attractions. Whether you’re looking for fascinating museums, arts venues, or galleries—Dublin is the place for you. Although Dublin is Ireland’s biggest city, it’s still fairly small compared to London, Paris, and Berlin.

The city is only home to a population of 1.2 million. Therefore, it’s one of Europe’s greatest walking destinations. You’ll cherish roaming around the food markets, the almost endless array of Irish pubs, and incredible hikes surrounding the city. Do you love Guinness? Ireland is the home of Guinness, and it’s the best Guinness worldwide.

Here are the best things to do during your vacation to Dublin:

1. Wander Around Phoenix Park

When people think of Ireland, they think of many things. But the beautiful, luscious green landscape—as seen in the movies—is one of them. Dublin has fantastic parks and an excellent outdoor lifestyle, even though it rains a lot during the winter. Phoenix Park is one of the city's best options.

Phoenix Park is home to a stunning green urban landscape. The area is popular with locals looking for a relaxing walk with the dog, and it’s also ideal for anyone looking for a picnic. You can also visit Dublin’s Zoo while you’re in the park.

Address: Dublin 8, Ireland

2. Explore George’s Street Arcade

George’s Street ArcadeLink opens in a new tab dates back to the 19th century. You’ll find a stunning Victorian market full of food outlets and shops. We recommend you try a sausage roll or a cupcake at Lolly and Cooks. Moreover, you should buy some flowers at the Appassionata flower shop.

Once you’ve explored the market, you should cross the street towards Designist. It’s a quirky shop selling cool hardware, stationery by Irish and international brands, and various unique gifts. Thankfully, the arcade is enclosed. So you don’t have to worry about the rain.

Address: South Great George's Street, Dublin, Ireland

3. Visit the Guinness Storehouse

Are you a fan of drinking Guinness? It’s become a global success story. The best Guinness in the world is in Ireland because it’s the home of Guinness. You should check out the Guinness Storehouse during your visit to Dublin. 

The bar is open seven days per week and is a top tourism attraction. You can learn about the brand’s history, taste some delicious Guinness, and enjoy the sensational city views from the seventh floor. Bring your camera because the views of Dublin are epic from here. 

Address: St. James's Gate, Dublin 8, D08 VF8H, Ireland

4. Take a Day Trip to Dalkey Island

The world knows Ireland for its stunning scenery, and Dalkey Island doesn’t let you down. Taking a day trip to Dalkey Island is the most excellent way to make the most of the coastal location of Dublin. From here, you’ll spot seals, enjoy gorgeous photo vantage points, and look around Dublin through a different lens.

Furthermore, Dalkey is easily accessible via public transport. While you’re on your way to the island, you should stop for a post-kayak pint at Finnegan’s. You’ll find some of Ireland’s finest beer at this pub.

5. Wander around Trinity College

Trinity College is one of Dublin’s finest old buildings. Due to its fantastic central location, you can easily explore the college if you’re in the city center. Once you enter, you’ll find Ireland’s oldest university. Did you know it’s home to one of the world’s most famous books?

There’s a daily exhibition at the college, allowing visitors to take a peek at the Book of Kells. The book is a notorious manuscript written on calfskin. Staggeringly, it dates back to the ninth century. Make sure you bring your camera because the cobblestoned squares and gorgeous architecture are worth a few snaps.

Address: College Green, Dublin 2, Ireland

6. Watch Gaelic Football

Have you ever heard of Gaelic football? It’s Ireland’s most popular sport. You can watch Gaelic football matches at Dublin’s iconic Croke Park stadium. Croke Park is Ireland’s massive national stadium, hosting 82,000 fans during massive sporting events or concerts.

You can also watch rugby, football, and many major concerts during the summer months at this stadium. If you can’t manage to attend an event, you should take a guided tour of Croke Park. Many visitors will do the roof walk across the stadium. You’ll enjoy spellbinding views from the top.

Address: Jones' Rd, Drumcondra, Dublin 3, Ireland

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7. Explore the Jameson Distillery Bow

Ireland’s alcohol exports make the nation’s economy billions every year, and there are very few alcohol exports more famous than Jameson Whiskey. Therefore, you should visit the Jameson Distillery BowLink opens in a new tab. You’ll learn everything about the brand, how they make the whiskey, and you’ll enjoy a full serving of whiskey at the end.

What’s more, Jameson Distillery Bow has an excellent bar, tutored whiskey tastings, and guided tours with veterans of the industry. The attraction is in the center of Dublin, next to Smithfield Square. So it’s easy to get to if you’re walking around the city.

Address: Bow St, Smithfield, Dublin 7, D07 N9VH, Ireland

8. Visit the Little Museum of Dublin

The Little Museum of DublinLink opens in a new tab is a terrific attraction if you want to learn about Ireland’s vast history. You’ll find a mixture of humor, hospitality, and history when you visit this excellent museum. An excellent option is to partake in the Little Treasure Hunt or join the walking tour of St. Stephen’s Green.

The museum is within a gorgeous 18th-century Georgian townhouse. Also, the museum has over 5,000 artifacts donated or loaned directly from the people of Dublin. You’ll find exhibits on U2, JFK’s visit to Dublin, and exhibits covering the 1916 Rising.

Address: 15 St Stephen's Green, Dublin 2, Ireland

9. Wander Around EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum

Ireland’s culture has made an enormous impact on the world, and there is a huge Irish population in the United States. The best way to understand Ireland’s impact is by visiting the EPIC The Irish Emigration MuseumLink opens in a new tab.

You’ll witness stories from Irish emigrants who became poets, scientists, and artists. The museum won the vote as Europe’s leading tourist attraction in the 2019, 2020, and 2021 World Travel Awards. How’s that for a must-see attraction?

Address: The Chq Building, Custom House Quay, North Dock, Dublin 1, Ireland

A street view of the Chq Building in Dublin, Ireland

10 Fascinating Facts About Dublin

  1. Dublin’s name comes from an Irish Celtic name meaning ‘black pool’
  2. Dublin’s home to O’Connell Street, which is Europe’s widest street
  3. Dublin created great bands like U2, Kodaline, and The Dubliners
  4. The people of Dublin drink over 10 million pints of Guinness per day
  5. Dublin is the technology hub of Europe
  6. Hurling and Gaelic football are the two most popular sports in Dublin
  7. The Guinness Book of Records comes from Dublin
  8. Dublin has Ireland’s oldest pub called the Brazen Head, which dates back to 1198
  9. Due to historic conflicts, there is no catholic cathedral in Dublin
  10. Bono, the lead singer of U2, owns the Clarence Hotel

Final Thoughts

Dublin is a city with endless cultural attractions. Of course, you can party into the early hours in the legendary bars and clubs in Dublin.

However, if you want to walk, enjoy the coast, learn about Irish culture, eat international food, visit amazing museums, and observe stunning architecture—Dublin is the best place for you!

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Things to do in Dublin