Dublin Travel Guide

Introduction

Dublin, the capital and largest city of Ireland, is a vibrant metropolis steeped in history and culture. Situated on the east coast of the country, along the River Liffey, it boasts a population of over 1.4 million in its greater area. The city's rich heritage dates back to its Viking origins in the 9th century, evident in its medieval castles and cathedrals. Dublin is renowned for its literary legacy, having produced notable authors such as James Joyce and Oscar Wilde, and is home to Trinity College, Ireland's oldest university. Visitors can explore world-class museums, enjoy traditional Irish music in lively pubs, and sample the famous Guinness at the Storehouse. With its blend of historical landmarks, cultural attractions, and modern amenities, Dublin offers a unique and engaging experience for travellers.

Interesting Facts about Dublin

• Dublin was founded by Vikings in 841 AD, establishing a settlement known as Dyflin.
• The name 'Dublin' comes from the Irish 'Dubh Linn', meaning 'Black Pool'.
• Dublin has the youngest population in Europe, with approximately one-third under 25 years of age.
• The city boasts over 770 pubs, including the Brazen Head, which dates back to 1198 AD.
• Phoenix Park in Dublin is Europe's largest enclosed city park, covering 707 hectares.
• The Guinness brewery at St James Gate has a 9,000-year lease signed in 1759 for just £45 annually.
• O'Connell Bridge is unique in Europe as it's as wide as it is long, measuring about 45 metres.
• Dublin's Rotunda Hospital, founded in 1745, was the first purpose-built maternity hospital in Europe.
• The iconic MGM lion, Leo, was born in Dublin Zoo.
• Dublin has over 130 named rivers and streams flowing through the county.
• Trinity College Dublin has produced notable graduates including Oscar Wilde, Jonathan Swift, and Bram Stoker.
• The Ha'penny Bridge got its name because it once cost a halfpenny to cross.

History

Dublin's rich history stretches back over a millennium, with its origins rooted in Viking settlement. In 841 AD, Norse invaders established a fortified base called "Dubh Linn", meaning "black pool", at the mouth of the River Poddle where it meets the River Liffey. This Viking stronghold grew into a substantial commercial centre, laying the foundation for the city we know today. Prior to the Vikings' arrival, the area had been home to Celtic settlements, including a monastery named Duiblinn, which had been founded around the sixth century.

The Norman invasion of 1169 marked another significant chapter in Dublin's history. Under Norman rule, the city flourished as a medieval town, receiving its first royal charter and becoming the seat of English power in Ireland. The construction of Dublin Castle in 1204 cemented the city's status as an administrative centre. Despite periodic setbacks, such as the devastating Black Death in the 14th century, Dublin continued to grow and prosper as a trade hub. By the 17th century, it had become the second largest city in the British Empire, with a population of 60,000 by 1700.

The 18th century saw Dublin enter its architectural golden age, with the development of the iconic Georgian townhouses and squares that still characterise much of the city centre today. Following Ireland's independence in 1922, Dublin became the capital of the Irish Free State, later renamed Ireland. Today, visitors to Dublin can explore its fascinating history through its well-preserved medieval streetscape in areas like Temple Bar, remnants of the old city walls, and numerous museums that bring the city's past to life. From Viking roots to modern European capital, Dublin's history is a captivating journey through time.

Main Attractions

Trinity College

Founded in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth I, Trinity College is Ireland's oldest and most prestigious university. Its historic campus occupies 47 acres in the heart of Dublin city centre.

Key features:

• The Long Room Library: Houses over 200,000 of the library's oldest books in a stunning 65-metre-long chamber.
• The Book of Kells: An illuminated manuscript of the four Gospels, dating from the 9th century (located in the Old Library).
• Campanile: The iconic bell tower at the centre of the college square.
• Science Gallery: A venue where art and science collide, offering free exhibitions.

Visitors can join guided tours or explore the grounds independently. The college hosts various events throughout the year, including summer schools and public lectures.

Dublin Castle

Dublin Castle has been at the centre of Irish history for over 800 years. Originally built as a medieval fortress, it later served as the seat of British rule in Ireland until 1922.

Main attractions:

• State Apartments: Lavishly decorated rooms used for state functions.
• Medieval Undercroft: Remains of the original 13th-century castle.
• Chapel Royal: A Gothic Revival chapel completed in 1814.
• Dubh Linn Garden: Circular lawn on the site of the original black pool (dubh linn) that gave Dublin its name.
• Chester Beatty Library: Houses a vast collection of manuscripts, miniature paintings, and rare books from across the world.

The castle hosts regular exhibitions and events, including concerts in the Upper Yard during summer months.

St. Patrick's Cathedral

Founded in 1191, St. Patrick's Cathedral is the National Cathedral of the Church of Ireland and the largest cathedral in the country.

Points of interest:

• Gothic architecture: The current building dates mainly from the 13th century.
• Tomb of Jonathan Swift: The cathedral's most famous dean and author of "Gulliver's Travels".
• Choir: Known for its excellent acoustics and daily choral performances.
• Lady Chapel: The oldest part of the cathedral, restored in the 19th century.
• The Door of Reconciliation: Where the phrase "to chance your arm" allegedly originated.

The cathedral hosts regular concerts and events, particularly around Christmas and St. Patrick's Day.

Grafton Street

This pedestrianised shopping street is one of Dublin's main thoroughfares and a hub of activity.

Highlights:

• High-end shops and department stores
• Street performers and buskers
• Bewley's Oriental Café: A Dublin institution since 1927
• Side streets with boutique shops and cafes
• St. Stephen's Green Shopping Centre: At the top of Grafton Street

The street is particularly festive during the Christmas season, with elaborate light displays.

The Spire

Officially titled "Monument of Light", The Spire is a 120-metre stainless steel pin-like monument on O'Connell Street.

Interesting facts:

• Completed in 2003 as part of the street's regeneration project
• Diameter at the base is 3 metres, tapering to 15 cm at the top
• Illuminated at night by an external lighting system

While you can't climb The Spire, it serves as a useful landmark for navigation around the city centre.

Temple Bar

Often referred to as Dublin's 'cultural quarter', Temple Bar is a lively neighbourhood known for its narrow cobbled streets, colourful buildings, and vibrant nightlife.

Highlights:

• Meeting House Square: An outdoor performance space that hosts markets and film screenings.
• Temple Bar Food Market: Held every Saturday, offering local produce and artisanal foods.
• The Icon Walk: An open-air art installation celebrating Irish culture and history.
• Project Arts Centre: A multidisciplinary arts venue.
• IFI (Irish Film Institute): Screens classic, independent, and Irish films.

While popular with tourists, Temple Bar can be quite busy and noisy, especially on weekends. For a more authentic Dublin pub experience, consider venturing to other areas of the city.

Around Dublin

Malahide Castle and Gardens

Located about 14 km north of Dublin city centre, Malahide Castle dates back to the 12th century and was home to the Talbot family for nearly 800 years.

Attractions:

• Castle interior: Beautifully preserved rooms with period furnishings.
• Talbot Botanic Gardens: 22 acres of gardens and lawns, including a walled garden and butterfly house.
• Avoca Café and Shop: High-quality Irish crafts and food products.
• Malahide Demesne: 260 acres of parkland surrounding the castle, with walking trails and sports facilities.

The castle is easily accessible by train from Dublin city centre.

Howth

This charming coastal village, located on the Howth Peninsula in north Dublin, offers a perfect day trip from the city.

Things to do:

• Cliff Walk: A scenic 6 km loop around Howth Head with stunning views of Dublin Bay.
• Howth Harbour: Watch fishing boats come and go, and enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants.
• Howth Market: Weekend market selling local produce, crafts, and street food.
• Ireland's Eye: Take a boat trip to this uninhabited island, home to a variety of seabirds.
• Howth Castle: Private residence with beautiful grounds open to the public.

Howth is particularly popular on weekends, so consider visiting midweek if possible.

Top Museums

National Museum of Ireland

Archaeology (Kildare Street)

This branch houses an unparalleled collection of Irish antiquities, offering visitors a journey through Ireland's ancient past. Notable exhibits include:

• The Treasury: Features iconic pieces such as the exquisite Tara Brooch, the ornate Ardagh Chalice, and the intricate Derrynaflan Hoard.
• Prehistoric Ireland: Showcases artefacts from the Mesolithic, Neolithic, Bronze Age, and Iron Age periods, including ancient tools, weapons, and jewellery.
• Viking Ireland: Explores the Viking impact on Ireland through artefacts discovered in Dublin excavations.
• Medieval Ireland: Displays religious and secular objects from the period, including the stunning Cross of Cong.

Decorative Arts & History (Collins Barracks)

Set in the impressive Collins Barracks, this museum offers a panoramic view of Ireland's cultural evolution:

• Soldiers & Chiefs: A comprehensive exhibition on Ireland's military history from 1550 to the present.
• Eileen Gray: Celebrates the work of the renowned Irish designer and architect.
• Irish Silver: Showcases the craftsmanship of Irish silversmiths from the 17th to the 20th centuries.
• Fashion and Furniture: Explores changing styles in Irish design over the centuries.

Natural History (Merrion Street)

Affectionately known as the "Dead Zoo", this Victorian-era museum is a time capsule of 19th-century natural science:

• Irish Fauna: Features specimens of Ireland's native animals, including the extinct Irish elk.
• Mammals of the World: Displays an extensive collection of taxidermied animals from across the globe.
• Insects and Butterflies: Houses a vast array of preserved insects, showcasing biodiversity.

Cultural and Historical Museums

EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum

Located in the historic CHQ Building, EPIC offers an immersive journey through the Irish diaspora's global impact:

• Interactive Galleries: Twenty themed galleries use state-of-the-art technology to bring Irish emigration stories to life.
• Global Irish Influence: Explores how Irish emigrants shaped fields such as science, politics, sport, and the arts worldwide.
• Whispering Library: An audio installation featuring works by Irish writers read by contemporary Irish voices.
• Irish Family History Centre: Offers resources for visitors to trace their Irish roots.

Chester Beatty Library

Nestled in the heart of Dublin Castle, this museum houses the eclectic collection of mining magnate Sir Alfred Chester Beatty:

• Western Collection: Features illuminated manuscripts, rare books, and fine prints from Europe.
• Islamic Collection: Showcases exquisite Qur'ans, Persian miniatures, and Turkish and Persian paintings.
• East Asian Collection: Displays Chinese jade books, Japanese woodblock prints, and elaborately decorated scrolls.
• Temporary Exhibitions: Regularly hosts special exhibitions highlighting different aspects of world cultures.

Dublinia

Situated at the crossroads of the medieval city, Dublinia brings Dublin's Viking and Medieval history to vivid life:

• Viking Dublin: Features reconstructions of Viking houses, ships, and weapons, offering insights into daily life in Viking-age Dublin.
• Medieval Dublin: Explores the city's development during the Middle Ages, including recreations of medieval streets and buildings.
• History Hunters: Showcases the archaeological processes used to uncover Dublin's past.
• St. Michael's Tower: Offers panoramic views of the city from its 17th-century watchtower.

Kilmainham Gaol

This former prison played a crucial role in Irish history, particularly during the struggle for independence.

Key features:

• East Wing: Victorian-era panopticon design.
• Stone Breakers' Yard: Site of executions of the leaders of the 1916 Easter Rising.
• Exhibition area: Displays on the political and penal history of the prison.

Guided tours are available and highly recommended for understanding the site's historical context.

Literary Museums

Museum of Literature Ireland (MoLI)

Celebrating Ireland's unparalleled literary heritage, MoLI is housed in the beautiful Newman House on St Stephen's Green:

• James Joyce Exhibition: Features Joyce's "Copy No. 1" of Ulysses and multimedia installations exploring his work.
• Literary Ireland: Traces the development of Irish literature from early medieval sagas to contemporary works.
• Riverrun of Language: An immersive digital installation celebrating the Irish way with words.
• Gardens: Beautiful gardens, including the Readers' Garden and the Commons, offer peaceful spaces for reflection.

Dublin Writers Museum

Set in a magnificent 18th-century mansion, this museum celebrates the lives and works of Dublin's literary heroes:

• Gallery of Writers: Features portraits, books, and personal items of famous Dublin writers.
• Rare Book Collection: Houses first editions and rare manuscripts of notable works.
• Children's Literature Room: Dedicated to Irish children's literature and its authors.
• Gorham Library: A beautiful room housing a collection of Dublin literary periodicals.

Social History Museums

Little Museum of Dublin

This charming museum, set in a Georgian townhouse, offers an intimate look at 20th-century Dublin:

• People's Museum: Features over 5,000 artefacts donated by Dubliners, telling the story of the city's recent past.
• U2 Room: Dedicated to Dublin's most famous rock band, showcasing memorabilia and rare photographs.
• Christy Brown Room: Celebrates the life and work of the acclaimed Irish writer and painter.
• Green Mile Walking Tour: Offers guided tours of St. Stephen's Green, exploring its rich history.

14 Henrietta Street

This museum offers a poignant journey through Dublin's social history, from the grandeur of Georgian times to the hardships of tenement life:

• Georgian Splendour: The top floor is restored to its 18th-century glory, showcasing the life of Dublin's elite.
• Victorian Decline: Explores the building's gradual transformation as Dublin's fortunes changed.
• Tenement Life: Recreates the conditions of early 20th-century tenement dwellers, with authentic furnishings and personal stories.
• Mrs Dowling's Flat: A recreation of one of the last flats in the building, inhabited until the 1970s.

GPO Museum

Located in the iconic General Post Office on O'Connell Street, this museum focuses on the pivotal 1916 Easter Rising:

• Immersive Exhibits: Uses interactive technology to bring the events of the Rising to life.
• Letters, Photographs, and Artefacts: Displays personal items and official documents related to the Rising.
• Audio-Visual Presentations: Offers context for the Rising and its impact on Irish history.
• Original Features: Incorporates elements of the original GPO building, including its iconic façade.

Art Museums

Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA)

Housed in the magnificent 17th-century Royal Hospital Kilmainham, IMMA is Ireland's premier venue for modern and contemporary art:

• Permanent Collection: Features works by leading Irish and international artists from the 1940s to the present.
• Temporary Exhibitions: Hosts a dynamic programme of exhibitions, often showcasing cutting-edge contemporary art.
• Formal Gardens: The beautifully landscaped grounds include a meadow, formal gardens, and medieval burial grounds.
• Artists' Residency Programme: Supports both Irish and international artists in developing their practice.

The Hugh Lane Gallery

Also known as Dublin City Gallery, this institution focuses on modern and contemporary art:

• Francis Bacon Studio: Features the reconstructed studio of the famous Irish-born artist.
• Stained Glass Room: Showcases exquisite stained glass works by Harry Clarke.
• Sean Scully Gallery: Dedicated to the works of the renowned Irish-American artist.
• Temporary Exhibitions: Hosts regular exhibitions of Irish and international contemporary art.

Specialised Museums

National Print Museum

Celebrating Ireland's rich printing heritage, this museum is located in the former Garrison Chapel of Beggars Bush Barracks:

• Working Exhibits: Features a collection of fully-functioning vintage printing presses.
• History of Printing: Traces the development of printing from Gutenberg to the digital age.
• Temporary Exhibitions: Regularly hosts exhibitions on various aspects of print culture and design.
• Hands-On Workshops: Offers visitors the chance to try traditional printing techniques.

From ancient artefacts to contemporary installations, from literary giants to social history, Dublin's museums offer a comprehensive and engaging exploration of Ireland's rich cultural heritage. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an art lover, a literature buff, or simply curious about Irish culture, you'll find an abundance of fascinating experiences in the city's diverse museum landscape. Each institution provides a unique window into different aspects of Irish identity, creativity, and history, making Dublin a true haven for museum-goers.

Local Cuisine

Dublin's culinary scene offers a delightful array of traditional Irish dishes that reflect the city's rich gastronomic heritage. Visitors can savour hearty classics like Irish stew, a comforting blend of tender lamb or beef with root vegetables, or tuck into a warming Dublin coddle, a stew made with layers of bacon, sausages, potatoes, and onions. For a true taste of Dublin, try boxty, a potato pancake often served as a wrap with savoury fillings. Seafood lovers shouldn't miss the chance to sample Dublin Bay prawns, also known as langoustines, which are a local delicacy. To round off your meal, indulge in a slice of barmbrack, a traditional Irish fruitcake, or enjoy a pint of the city's world-famous Guinness alongside a hearty beef and Guinness pie. For a quick bite, the uniquely Dublin spice bag offers a fusion of crispy chicken, chips, and spices, perfect for a late-night snack.

Shopping

The city's main shopping areas include Grafton Street and Henry Street, both bustling pedestrian thoroughfares lined with high-street brands, department stores, and boutiques. For a more unique experience, visitors can explore the Victorian-era George's Street Arcade or the elegant Powerscourt Centre, home to independent retailers and Irish designers. Dublin's shopping centres, such as Stephen's Green Shopping Centre and Dundrum Town Centre, offer a wide range of stores under one roof. Those seeking Irish-made products and souvenirs should visit shops like Kilkenny Design or the House of Ireland. The city also hosts several markets, including the Temple Bar Food Market on Saturdays, where shoppers can find fresh local produce and artisanal goods.

Nature in and around Dublin

Dublin and its surrounding areas offer a diverse range of natural attractions for visitors to explore. Within the city, Phoenix Park, one of Europe's largest enclosed urban parks, provides 1,750 acres of green space and is home to a herd of wild fallow deer. St. Stephen's Green, located in the heart of Dublin, offers a tranquil oasis with landscaped gardens and a lake. Just outside the city, the Howth Peninsula boasts stunning cliff walks with panoramic views of Dublin Bay. The Wicklow Mountains National Park, a short drive from Dublin, features breathtaking landscapes of mountains, lakes, and woodlands, perfect for hiking enthusiasts. Bull Island, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, is known for its sand dunes and diverse birdlife. For those seeking coastal beauty, the Velvet Strand in Portmarnock offers a 5-kilometre stretch of sandy beach with views of the nearby Howth Peninsula and Ireland's Eye. Further afield, Lough Tay in Wicklow, nicknamed the Guinness Lake due to its dark waters and white sand beach, provides a picturesque setting amidst the Wicklow Mountains.

Phoenix Park

At 707 hectares (1,750 acres), Phoenix Park is one of the largest enclosed public parks in any European capital city. It was originally created as a royal hunting park in the 1660s and opened to the public in 1747.

Key attractions:

• Dublin Zoo: One of the world's oldest zoos, home to over 400 animals.
• Áras an Uachtaráin: The official residence of the President of Ireland.
• Victorian People's Flower Gardens: 22 acres of ornamental gardens, including a large lake.
• Phoenix Park Visitor Centre: Housed in the restored Ashtown Castle, it provides information about the park's history and wildlife.
• Wellington Monument: A 62-metre-high obelisk commemorating the Duke of Wellington.
• Herd of fallow deer: Descendants of the original herd introduced in the 17th century.

The park offers extensive walking and cycling trails, sports fields, and picnic areas. It's also a venue for concerts and other large-scale events.

St. Stephen's Green

This 27-acre Victorian park is a green oasis in the heart of Dublin's city centre. Opened to the public in 1880, it has been a popular recreational space for Dubliners and visitors alike for over a century.

Features:

• Duck pond with a variety of waterfowl
• Ornamental lake with a waterfall
• Formal flower gardens
• Tree-lined walking paths
• Children's playground
• Various statues and memorials, including those dedicated to W.B. Yeats and James Joyce

The park is surrounded by beautiful Georgian buildings and is particularly stunning in spring when the cherry blossoms are in bloom.

Iveagh Gardens

Often overlooked in favour of the nearby St. Stephen's Green, Iveagh Gardens is a hidden gem in Dublin's city centre.

Attractions:

• Yew maze
• Rosarium with a variety of rose species
• Cascading waterfall over rustic rocks
• Sunken lawn with archery grounds
• Victorian-era conservatory

The gardens are less crowded than other city parks, offering a peaceful retreat.

Killiney Hill

Located in south Dublin, Killiney Hill offers panoramic views of Dublin Bay, the Wicklow Mountains, and the Irish Sea.

Features:

• Walking trails through woodland
• Obelisk at the summit, built in 1742
• Views of Dalkey Island and Bray Head
• Nearby Killiney Beach: A long, stony beach popular for swimming

The area is known for its wealthy residents and has been compared to the Bay of Naples for its scenic beauty.

Dublin Bay

Dublin Bay is a C-shaped inlet of the Irish Sea, offering beautiful coastal scenery and numerous recreational opportunities.

Activities and sights:

• Dublin Bay Cruises: Boat trips from the city centre to Howth or Dun Laoghaire
• Bull Island: A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with a 5 km long beach
• Poolbeg Lighthouse: Iconic red lighthouse at the end of the Great South Wall
• Dalkey and Killiney: Upscale coastal suburbs with beautiful views
• Dun Laoghaire: Seaside town with a historic harbour and pier

The Dublin Bay area offers numerous walking and cycling routes, including the Dublin Coastal Trail.

Getting There & Around

The compact city centre is easily walkable, making it perfect for exploring on foot. For longer journeys, Dublin boasts an efficient public transport network. The bright yellow Dublin Bus fleet covers over 100 routes throughout the city, whilst the modern Luas tram system offers two lines connecting the suburbs to the core. For coastal excursions, hop on the DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transit), a suburban rail service that runs along the picturesque Dublin coastline. To make the most of these options, visitors should consider purchasing a Leap Card, which allows for unlimited travel on buses, trams, and trains for a set period. Cycling enthusiasts can take advantage of the DublinBikes scheme, with rental stations dotted across the city. Whether you prefer to walk, cycle, or use public transport, Dublin's well-connected infrastructure ensures you can navigate the city with ease.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Dublin is during the shoulder seasons of April to May and September to October. These months offer a delightful balance of mild weather, fewer crowds, and reasonable accommodation prices. With temperatures ranging from 10°C to 15°C, visitors can comfortably explore the city's iconic landmarks and lush parks without the peak summer crowds. The days are still pleasantly long, allowing ample time for sightseeing and enjoying outdoor activities. Autumn, in particular, bathes the city in beautiful golden hues, creating a picturesque backdrop for your Dublin adventure. Moreover, these months often feature exciting cultural events, such as the Dublin Fringe Festival in September, adding an extra layer of vibrancy to your visit. Whether you fancy a pint of Guinness in a cosy pub or a stroll through Phoenix Park, the shoulder seasons provide an ideal setting for experiencing the Irish capital's charm without the drawbacks of peak tourist season.