Dublin, Ireland
Best time to travel
Ireland's capital city is famed for its rainy and cold winters, making summers the favored season for visitors.
The summer months (June to August) have the best weather and an abundance of festivals and activities but also the highest prices and biggest crowds.
Winter (december to march) has the lowest prices and smallest crowds (apart from Christmas holiday and new year’s, when the prices tend to double) but also the least pleasant weather.
Spring and Fall seem to be the best time to travel to Dublin if you want to balance the budget and the crowds. Spring brings sunnier skies and milder temperatures.
We scheduled our trip from late April to early May, enjoying nearly five days of excellent weather and fewer crowds. Based on our experience, we highly recommend visiting during this period.
How to get there
Dublin’s International Airport is located 10 km to the north of the city. The Irish capital’s Airport is one of the busiest in Europe. As a major international airport, Dublin has hundreds of daily flights providing a huge range of options to get there. Direct flights are available from most major cities in Europe.
After landing, there’s many bus shuttle services traveling to the city centre, with an average journey time of 30 minutes.
The compact city center make’s it very easy to explore it by foot. There’s also a very efficient network of buses, trams and trains that connects the city and the suburbs.
Where to stay
Dublin isn’t a cheap city if we compare it to other European cities, so expect the prices to be a bit higher than other European hotels, even the budget ones.
Depending on the type of traveler you are and your budget you can pick a different area of the city that better suit your preferences.
If you like fewer tourists and quieter places you may try the southside neighborhoods, like Portobello, for example.
On the other hand, if you want to stay in the heart of the city you should pick the O'Connell Street.
If you are seeking nightlife and want to experience the Irish pubs look for accommodations in the Temple Bar area.
Trinity area is known for some of the best budget accommodation in the city.
Dublin is a fairly small city so whatever area of the city you choose you will never be too far from all the highlights.
We booked the easyHotel Dublin City Centre. Don’t be fooled by the name, it’s really not that close to the centre but it was a lot cheaper than the other options we looked at. We were a bit naive when we booked this trip, because we wanted something within a lower budget (we had a big trip booked ahead) but didn’t expect the hotels to be as pricey as they were. Since the airplane trip was already purchased, we opted for a budget-friendly hotel that strikes a balance - not too far, yet not too close to the city center. We decided to put our feet to work for some penny-pinching perks – extra steps, extra savings!
Best Tourist attractions
The Book of Kells and Trinity College
The majestic Old Library at Trinity College is one of Ireland's biggest tourist attractions and holds thousands of ancient and valuable books.
The Book of Kells is one of the most famous artifacts in the world and is exhibited in this Library. But to be honest what brought us there was the library itself, the 65-metre-long main chamber of the Old Library, the Long Room houses 200,000 of the Library's oldest books.
For those seeking a glimpse into Ireland's rich cultural tapestry and an encounter with an ancient marvel, Trinity College and The Book of Kells stand as a timeless gateway to the past, inviting visitors on an unforgettable voyage through history.
You can book your tickets online that will give you admission to the book of kells and old library. https://bookofkells.ticketsolve.com/ticketbooth/shows/1173603695/events/428607048
Kilmainham Gaol
This is one of the most popular sights in Dublin.
Dublin's Kilmainham Gaol housed common criminals and some of the most famous political and military leaders involved in Ireland’s struggle for independence. The prisoners were held in one of two wings. The older one, the West Wing, held the political prisoners and the poorest criminals - often jailed for stealing food during the Famine. The East Wing looks more like a classic jail set-up where guards can watch inmates at all time. The east wing was shown in many films – In the Name of the Father, Michael Collins, Paddington 2.
Access to the Gaol is by guided tour only, lasts 1 hour and pre-booking tickets online is essential. Initially, we faced difficulty securing tour slots for our preferred dates. Despite trying daily, the slots remained unavailable until they finally opened up for booking. Persistence pays off—keep trying until you snag those tickets!
Stephen’s Green Shopping Centre
Stephen's Green Shopping Centre is a large indoor shopping centre located in the heart of the city centre at the south end of Grafton Street. After you grab a bite or go shopping you can cross the street and explore the park St. Stephen’s Green.
Liffey Bridge or Ha’penny Bridge
The first pedestrian bridge to cross the Liffey and originally called the Wellington Bridge. Liffey Bridge remains the bridge's official name to this day, although it is most commonly referred to as the Ha'penny Bridge. It acquired this nickname from the halfpenny toll levied on all users of the bridge up to 1919. It is a very beautiful bridge, definitely worth a visit.
Dublin Castle
Dublin Castle is the heart of historic Dublin. It is one of the most important buildings in Irish history. It was constructed in the early thirteenth century on the site of a Viking settlement. It was the seat of the British government’s administration in Ireland until 1922. Following Ireland’s independence, in 1922, Dublin Castle was handed over to the new Irish government.
It is now a major government complex and a key tourist attraction. You can buy self guided visit tickets online on the following link:
The Temple Bar
The Temple Bar is located in the heart of Dublin City, close to all the main attractions. Temple Bar is one of the capital’s most appealing neighborhoods. It is promoted as Dublin's 'cultural quarter' and, as a centre of Dublin's city centre's nightlife, is a popular tourist attraction. It combines various cultural venues with dozens of bars, restaurants and typical Irish pubs.
The area is famous for its lively nightlife. In the renowned Temple Bar area, anticipate higher bar prices compared to nearby areas due to its popularity among tourists.
Even if you don’t go there for the drinks, it’s always worth a stroll down the streets, specially at night.
Jameson Distillery
Jameson Distillery Bow St. is an Irish whiskey tourist attraction Nestled in the heart of Smithfield. It is known for the world’s leading distillery tours, cocktail making classes and premium whiskey tasting sessions.
We booked a tour where the guide explained the history of the iconic Irish brand and the secrets behind the complex distillation process. Following that, we enjoyed a tasting session and were treated to a complimentary drink at the bar. It was a nice and different experience.
You can book a tour in the following link:
https://www.jamesonwhiskey.com/en/visit-our-distilleries/jameson-bow-street-distillery-tour/
St Patrick's and Christ Church Cathedrals
Within a few minutes’ walk of each other lie the city’s two medieval cathedrals - Christ Church Cathedral and St Patrick’s Cathedral.
St Patrick’s Cathedral is one of Dublin’s most popular attractions, founded in 1191 as a Roman Catholic Cathedral, is currently the national cathedral of the Church of Ireland.
Christ Church Cathedral, more formally The Cathedral of the Holy Trinity is the Cathedral of the United Dioceses of Dublin and Glendalough.
Visiting St. Patrick's and Christ Church Cathedrals in Dublin was a captivating dive into history and architectural splendor.
Dublin’s Zoo
Dublin Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in the world and the largest zoo in Ireland. Located in the Phoenix Park in the heart of Dublin city, is Ireland’s most popular family attraction.
The zoo is home to a diverse range of animals from around the globe, including mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians. Dublin Zoo is a 28 hectare park of gardens, lakes and natural habitats for over 400 animals. The large scale of the site allows the animals plenty of room to roam and their spaces carefully replicates the animal's natural habitat.
In our opinion it’s a fun way to spend some hours of your day but if you have a limited time in the city and have to select what to visit we would skip this one, unless you have kids and want to entertain them and spend some nice family time.
The Guinness Storehouse
Nestled in the heart of Dublin stands an iconic landmark that encapsulates the essence of Ireland's rich brewing heritage - the Guinness Storehouse.
The moment you step into the Storehouse, the ambiance of brewing excellence and history engulfs you. The tour begins at the ground floor in the Atrium, shaped like a giant pint glass, where visitors are introduced to the core ingredients that give Guinness its distinct flavor. Here, the art of brewing unfolds through interactive displays and multimedia exhibits.
Ascending through the floors, each level of the Storehouse unfolds a different chapter of the Guinness story. From the history of its founder, Arthur Guinness, to the brewing process itself, visitors are guided through a captivating narrative. Engaging displays showcase the cooperage, advertising campaigns, and even a peek into the iconic Guinness archive.
One of the highlights awaits at the Gravity Bar atop the Storehouse, offering a panoramic view of Dublin's skyline. Here, with a complimentary pint of Guinness in hand (we have to be honest, our taste buds didn't tap into its fan club), visitors can savor the culmination of their journey while taking in breathtaking vistas of the city.
The Guinness Storehouse isn't just about beer; it's a celebration of Irish culture, innovation, and hospitality. The blend of history, technology, and a touch of magic leaves an indelible mark on all who visit, creating an experience that transcends the mere appreciation of a beverage.
A trip to Dublin isn't complete without a visit to the Guinness Storehouse, where the story of Ireland's beloved stout comes alive in a captivating and unforgettable way.
Exploring Dublin at Your Own Pace: The Hop-On Hop-Off Experience
Dublin, steeped in history and vibrant culture, beckons explorers to uncover its treasures at their own leisurely pace. The Hop-On Hop-Off tour stands as the perfect gateway to immerse oneself in the charm of this captivating city.
The iconic red double-decker buses, synonymous with Dublin's streets, offer a convenient and flexible mode of exploration. With strategically placed stops at the city's major attractions and historical landmarks, this tour allows visitors the freedom to hop off at any designated point, delve into the sights, and hop back on at their convenience.
The journey begins as the bus winds its way through Dublin's bustling streets, offering panoramic views of landmarks like Trinity College, Dublin Castle, and St. Patrick's Cathedral. Engaging commentary, available in multiple languages, narrates the city's rich history, providing insights into each stop along the route.
What makes the Hop-On Hop-Off tour truly remarkable is its adaptability. Whether it's a desire to stroll through the cobbled streets of Temple Bar, visit the Guinness Storehouse, or explore the historic Kilmainham Gaol, the tour accommodates diverse interests and schedules.
In essence, the Hop-On Hop-Off tour transcends the confines of a conventional sightseeing expedition. It's an invitation to savor Dublin's essence, offering a unique blend of convenience, insight, and the freedom to craft your own Dublin adventure.
Exploring Dublin's Tranquil Oasis: St. Stephen's Green
Nestled in the heart of Dublin, St. Stephen's Green stands as a serene retreat, offering respite from the vibrant bustle of the city. This immaculately landscaped park spans over 22 acres, enchanting visitors with its lush lawns, meandering pathways, and vibrant floral displays.
The park's rich history dates back to the 17th century when it was enclosed as a private space for the wealthy residents. Today, it welcomes everyone, inviting locals and tourists alike to unwind amidst its beauty.
At St. Stephen's Green, one can indulge in a leisurely stroll or find a quiet spot to sit and admire the elegant statues scattered throughout the park. The lake, adorned with graceful swans, adds a touch of tranquility to the picturesque setting.
The park reflects the changing seasons with vibrant blooms in spring and a spectrum of colors in autumn. The iconic Fusilier's Arch proudly marks the entrance, serving as a gateway to this green sanctuary.
A visit here is an invitation to unwind, connect with nature, and embrace the serene charm that defines this captivating urban oasis.
The Dublin Card: Exploring Pros and Cons
The Dublin Card stands as an enticing option for visitors seeking convenience and savings while exploring the city. However, like any pass, it comes with its own set of advantages and limitations.
Advantages:
Cost Efficiency: For avid explorers planning to visit numerous attractions, the Dublin Card offers potential savings on entry fees to various sites and activities.
Convenience: The card provides ease of access to a wide array of attractions and often includes skip-the-line privileges, saving valuable time, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Transportation Inclusions: Some Dublin Cards bundle public transportation options, providing unlimited travel on buses, trams, and trains within the city, adding value to the pass.
Special Offers: Beyond entry to attractions, the card may offer discounts at select restaurants, shops, or tours, enhancing the overall travel experience.
Disadvantages:
Upfront Cost: While it can offer savings in the long run, the initial purchase cost might be relatively high for some travelers, especially if they don’t plan to visit many included attractions.
Time Limitations: Dublin Cards are typically valid for a set number of days (e.g., 1, 2, or 3 days), which might create pressure to visit as many sites as possible within that timeframe.
Attraction Selection: Not all attractions or tours might be included in the Dublin Card, potentially limiting options based on individual interests.
Unused Value: If a traveler doesn’t visit enough attractions or make use of the included transportation, the full value of the card might not be realized.
Ultimately, the decision to purchase a Dublin Card depends on individual preferences, the planned itinerary, and the desire for convenience versus flexibility. For those intending to explore extensively and take advantage of bundled offers, the Dublin Card could be a smart investment. However, travelers with specific interests or a more relaxed pace might find better value in purchasing tickets or passes for select attractions separately.
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Attention: All information presented here was correct at the time of our travel. Therefore, we advise you to check whether they remain unchanged.
