Dublin is more than just rowdy pubs and epic beer. Okay, who are we kidding, the best part about Dublin is the rowdy pubs and epic beer but it does have more to offer!
For us Canadians, it’s one of the cheapest places to fly into when venturing to Europe. Because of that, I’ve found myself visiting the city 3 times on my travels, the longest period of time was 5 days. If I’m being honest, you can definitely see the city in 2 days, or a weekend.
The city itself is small enough that you can pretty much walk to all of the major attractions if you pick a hotel in a central location. If you’re looking to save money and book a hotel a little outside of the main city than cab rides are relatively cheap and easy enough to catch when you need one.
What to do
It’s definitely easy to hit up the main attractions in Dublin in a weekend. There are some attractions that you will need to buy tickets for in advance like the Guinness factory, so make sure to consider that before traveling.
Drink a pint at the Guinness Storehouse
Of course, no visit to Dublin is complete without visiting the Guinness Storehouse. Having been to a number of different brewery tours (including Carlsberg and Heineken) and this is one of the best. The tour takes you onto multiple floors with various different experiences. You’re given one token for a pint and you can choose which room you cash it in.
My recommendation is to wait until you get to the Gravity Bar to cash in your pint token. The views of Dublin are incredible. However, keep in mind your timing because it can get really hot and crowded in the room.
Wander through Trinity College
My personal favourite attraction is Trinity College. The architecture is so beautiful and makes for a lovely backdrop for a walk. I would strongly suggest taking one of their walking tours. It will help you to learn more about the buildings and statues you’re seeing.
Plus the tour will take you inside the library at Trinity College which is arguably my favourite place in Dublin. Here’s a fun fact for you, the books aren’t filed and placed according to the Dewey Decimal system, but instead based on height and weight. The reason for this is because the shelves go so high, if a heavy book were to fall from the very top, it could cause some serious damage.
Marvel at The Book of Kells
Inside the grounds of Trinity College, you’ll also find the Book of Kells. As one of the oldest books in the world and certainly one of the most beautiful, the book contains the four Gospels of the New Testament. Although it’s covered in a glass case, you can get up close with the book to really get a sense of the detail in the photos and calligraphy.
You will have to pay to get inside but the ticket will give you access to the library as well. Also don’t be turned off by the look of the line, it actually goes much faster than you think.
Walk around the Dublin Castle
Up until 1922, the Dublin Castle is actually where the British government conducted all of their business in Ireland. Today it sits as a major tourist attraction and conference center. We didn’t go inside but instead walked around the grounds. There is a lovely garden on the outside of the castle walls that I would recommend taking a moment to relax in.
Relax at St. Patrick’s Cathedral
Not far from the Dublin castle, you’ll find the St. Patrick’s Cathedral. The church was built in the early 1100’s and is the largest church in Ireland.
This is another great spot to take a break on the grass or some of the nearby benches. During one of my visits to Ireland, there was actually a large band playing music, it was actually really cool.
Take a shot at Jameson Distillery
Located near Smithfield Square you’ll find the Jameson Distillery. Now, I’m not really one for whiskey so I haven’t actually ever gone inside but the building looks cool. This is also the spot where Jameson was originally distilled until 1971.
Party in the Temple Bar area
Whether you’re a drinker or not, you definitely need to set aside one night to visit the Temple Bar area and of course the Temple Bar pub. This is nightlife area of Dublin and you’ll be hardpressed to find a night where pub goers aren’t spilling into the street outside the Temple Bar pub. What makes the place so famous? It has traditional Irish music 7 days a week and the atmosphere is fun you’re bound to have a great time.
Fill up at The Brazen Head Pub
The Brazen Head pub is Dublin’s oldest pub dating back to 1198! What I love most about this place is that it’s actually made up of multiple different roomes with various atmospheres for people to enjoy. It’s the perfect spot to escape a dreary day in Ireland. The rooms are super cozy and the food is traditional, comforting and absolutely delicious!
Saunter through St. Stephen’s Green
A large park filled with lush greenery, beautiful bodies of water and stunning flowers. It’s a great spot to take a walk through if you need a break from the city. St. Stephen’s Green is also a good place to people watch!
Shop along Grafton Street
If shopping is more your speed than make your way to Grafton Street. Here you’ll find some of the best shops in Dublin lined up on either side. There are also a number of great pubs and places to eat or drink along this area as well.
Where to Stay
It can be hard to know where to stay when booking a trip to a new destination. One thing I usually do is pick a popular tourist attraction and start my search around that area first.
Temple Bar area: this is a great place to stay if you’re looking to be in close proximity to the partying. If you’re a night owl intending on taking advantage of the pubs then I would recommend being within walking distance of this place.
North Wall area: a little further out of the city you’ll find the North Wall area. I’ll be honest there isn’t too much here but you will definitely get more bang for your buck hotel wise. It’s also a quieter area so families and anyone who doesn’t plan on partying like crazy will enjoy this spot.
Smithfield area: I actually think this is the sweet spot for staying in Dublin. You are within walking distance to some of the more popular spots like the Jameson distillery and Guinness storehouse but not so much in the thick of it that the noise will become a nuisance.
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