Dublin has so much to see and do that it is hard to narrow down the choices. This list just contains the main highlights that everyone should see at sometime in their life.
If you have a list of places you want to see or a specific niche, like "the best pubs in Dublin," or "the best restaurants" or "all of the churches and cathedrals" or "the best fish & chips" or "the main historical sites," then just contact me and we can work out plan for you to see the places that are most important to you.
1) The Book of Kells at Trinity College
Here is a nice write up from the BBC about the Book of Kells explaining what it is and why it is such a fascinating piece of history.
Before you see the actual book, there is an intriguing display of some of the pages and a description of the fine detail.
You can get tickets here:
2) The Gravity Bar at the Guinness Storehouse
Even if you don't like beer (or Guinness), the tour through the Guinness Storehouse is a visual, sometimes interactive, display of all of the pieces that go into producing a keg of beer and even has models of the ships that transported it. Then to top it off (pun intended), the tour ends on the top floor which has 360 degree, floor to ceiling windows over Dublin. It's a fantastic view.
And if you do like Guinness, there are often people in the Gravity Bar who don't like it and are looking to give away their drink tickets. :)
Here is information on the Guinness Storehouse Guinness Storehouse & Gravity Bar
3) Temple Bar – the area where all the craziness takes place. If you’re into bar hopping, you’ll want to go at night and experience the music and lively atmosphere. Otherwise at least go during the day and see the Temple Bar bar itself. (Temple Bar is an area and an actual bar.)
Standing in front of the Temple Bar bar is the most popular place in Dublin to take a selfie!
If you want to see Temple Bar before you go to Dublin, there is an app/website called “EarthCam” that has a webcam right outside of Temple Bar. Check it out here.
4) Grafton Street is the famous pedestrian shopping area. Renowned for its bustling atmosphere, it offers an eclectic mix of high-end shops, charming boutiques, and street performers who add a unique cultural flavor. With a variety of cafes, pubs, and restaurants, it’s an ideal spot to savor local cuisine and people-watch. The street’s proximity to historic landmarks and its charming pedestrian-friendly layout make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the heart of Dublin.
5) The Ha’Penny Bridge is a picturesque and iconic pedestrian bridge that offers a glimpse into the city's rich history and charm. Spanning the River Liffey, this beautifully designed, white cast-iron bridge, dating back to 1816, is a symbol of Dublin's heritage.
"In May 1816 this charming, elliptical arch bridge opened to offer passage via its timber gangway to any Dubliner willing to pay a ha’penny, the exact price of the then redundant ferry and payable to William Walsh, ferry owner and alderman of the city. He retired his leaking ferries and was compensated with £3,000 and the bridge lease for one hundred years."
While you're in the neighborhood, check out the statue of Molly Malone, who is celebrated in the famous Irish song "Cockles and Mussels." Molly Malone is considered a symbol of the city, embodying the hardworking and enduring nature of Dubliners, but unfortunately the statue is sometimes referred to somewhat fittingly as "the Tart with the Cart."
6) The GPO – the General Post Office which was the headquarters of the 1916 Easter Rising and still has bullet holes in the columns around it. The GPO played a pivotal role in Ireland's struggle for independence, and today it houses the GPO Witness History Museum, which offers interactive exhibits detailing this crucial period.
7) Saint Stephen's Green is an oasis of greenery and tranquility in the heart of Dublin, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The park is rich in history, with statues and memorials commemorating notable figures and events in Irish history. Its central location makes it easily accessible and a convenient spot for relaxation after exploring nearby attractions like Grafton Street and the National Museum.
8) Dublin Castle was the center of British administration in Ireland for over 700 years, so it has a rich history reflected in its diverse architectural styles, from medieval towers to elegant Georgian state rooms. You can explore the impressive State Apartments, the medieval undercroft, and the beautifully preserved Chapel Royal.
9) Christ Church Cathedral, located in the heart of the city and founded in 1030, contains stunning Gothic and Romanesque architecture, with intricate stone carvings, beautiful stained glass windows, and a magnificent crypt—the largest in Ireland. You can explore the fascinating exhibits in the crypt, including priceless artifacts and historical treasures. The cathedral also offers panoramic views of Dublin from its belfry.
10) St Patrick’s Cathedral is the largest cathedral in Ireland, with stunning Gothic architecture, intricate stained glass windows, and a beautiful interior. The cathedral is steeped in history, dating back to 1191, and houses a fascinating museum with artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of Dublin's past.
Honorable Mentions
National Museum of Ireland. When I was in Dublin, they had the bog bodies on display at the museum: http://www.museum.ie/Archaeology/Exhibitions/Current-Exhibitions/Kingship-and-Sacrifice
Brazen Head, one of Ireland's oldest pubs (established in 1198), offers visitors a historic architecture, cozy interiors, and memorabilia-laden walls. You can enjoy traditional Irish music sessions, storytelling nights, and hearty Irish cuisine, all of which create an authentic cultural experience.
Little Museum of Ireland – https://www.littlemuseum.ie (select “Experience” not the last minute tickets.)
The Irish Whiskey Museum is fun! They tell stories and have a movie that tells the history of whiskey in Ireland. This is in contrast to the Scots, who take their whisky (without the 'e' in Scotland) tours more seriously.
Phoenix Park – home of Dublin Zoo, a sports field, the Wellington Monument, and both the Presidential and US Ambassador’s Residences (and lots of deer).
The EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum
The only thing that I would recommend avoiding (for adult only groups) is “Dublinia”. It’s really for children, so for adults it seems cheesy.
Photo Credits
Molly Malone - Photo by Denis Tuksar on Unsplash
St Patrick’s Cathedral - Photo by Jaime Casap on Unsplash
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