The emerald city!
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Dublin, the capital city of Ireland, is a place where rich history, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality converge. With its charming cobblestone streets, lively pubs, and world-renowned landmarks, Dublin offers an unforgettable experience for every visitor. Whether you're a history buff, a lover of literature, or simply seeking a delightful adventure, Dublin promises to captivate your heart.
Dublin's heritage is deeply woven into its streets, buildings, and traditions. Begin your journey by visiting the iconic Dublin Castle, a historic fortress that showcases architectural grandness and serves as a symbol of Ireland's rich past. Then, take a stroll through the cobbled streets of Temple Bar, Dublin's cultural (and drinking!) quarter, where you'll find a fusion of traditional pubs, art galleries, and street performers. Don't miss Trinity College, Ireland's oldest university, we happened to visit on an open day!
Dublin's architectural beauty is a testament to its diverse history. The majestic St. Patrick's Cathedral, founded in 1191, is an architectural masterpiece that stands as one of Ireland's most important landmarks. Gaze in awe at the stunning neo-Gothic façade of the National Museum of Ireland - Archaeology, home to remarkable Celtic artifacts and a fascinating collection of Viking treasures.
No visit to Dublin would be complete without experiencing the city's legendary pub culture and there is no where better to rest your feet after a long day walking than a good old Irish pub (for a baileys coffee of course!). Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of the traditional Irish pubs, where you can enjoy live music, hearty pub atmosphere, and of course, a pint of Guinness (not for us!). Explore the legendary Temple Bar area, where the cobblestone streets come alive with the sound of traditional Irish music and the clinking of glasses. Engage in friendly banter with locals, who are always ready to share a tale or two, and savour the true essence of Dublin's hospitality. Make sure to find somewhere to stay in Dublin's centre, so you're close enough to enjoy the atmosphere well into the night!
Continuing with the theme of drinking, visit the Guinness Storehouse, a converted brewery that offers panoramic views of Dublin and an interactive journey through the history of Ireland's famous stout. Make sure to prebook your tickets as it does get busy and they may not be available on the day! In addition to Guinness, there is also the Jameson Whiskey distillery which offers tours (including tastings of course!)
While Dublin is a bustling city, it also offers stunning natural escapes just a short distance away. Lose yourself in the beauty of lush green valleys, sparkling lakes, and cascading waterfalls. Explore the enchanting Waterfall at Iveagh Gardens, and embark on scenic walks or hikes in the nearby Howth (a great day trip from dublin!) or Phoenix Park, one of Europe's largest enclosed city parks.
Dublin's rich heritage, literary legacy, architectural wonders, and infectious pub culture make it a city that truly has it all. From exploring historic landmarks to indulging in traditional music and folklore, Dublin offers an authentic Irish experience that will leave an indelible mark on your heart. So, pack your bags, embrace the spirit of adventure, and set foot in this captivating city for an unforgettable journey that will stay with you long after you leave its shores. Dublin awaits you with open arms!
Additional information:
How do I get to Dublin?
Dublin is easily accessible by air, with direct flights from many major cities around the UK. The flight time from the UK varies, but is normally within the region of one hour and often occur several times a day from most airports using Ryanair.
Where should I stay in Dublin?
Every time we have stayed in Dublin, we have stayed in StayCity Aparthotels. We think they are incredible and love to arrive to our own little studio. There are several StayCity hotels across Dublin, so pick one that has the best location for you but do note everywhere in Dublin is walkable.
There are plenty of other options for accommodation in Dublin. Have a look for something that will suit your group size and budget on booking.com.
Do I need a visa to visit Dublin?
Citizens of most countries do not need a visa to visit Dublin for a stay of up to 90 days. Read our Schengen Agreement post to find out more details about this rule. Dublin is part of the Common Travel Area for the UK. To find out what this means, read Gov.uk.
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What's the currency in Dublin?
The currency of Ireland is the Euro. You can change money when you arrive or withdraw from ATMs, but be aware of high conversion fees! Some ATMs may charge you to withdraw money, even if your bank doesn't. It's always best to pay in local currency, but we had no issues paying by card in Dublin.
What is the weather like in Dublin?
The weather is Dublin is moderate, like the UK. Always check the forecast before your trip to make sure you pack the right clothing. This is the current weather in Dublin.
What languages are spoken in Dublin?
The official language of Ireland is English or Gaelic. Just have to appreciate the accents!
What's the time zone in Dublin?
Dublin is in the London/Dublin The time is the same as the UK, but an hour behind most of mainland Europe e.g. France, Spain, Germany, Italy.
What are the best things to do in Dublin?
We always try and give you a few great recommendations of things to do on our Sightseekr Inspiration posts. If you're looking to fill your itinerary, have a look for the best activities, excursions and other things to do in Dublin on GetYourGuide.