Explore Dublin - An Exclusive Guide

A perfect day in... Dublin, Ireland

The historic riverside city of Dublin offers an enticing mix of history, art, good food and fantastic pub culture, all wrapped up in a typically warm Irish welcome.

What to see in Dublin

For a small capital, Dublin packs a big punch, with a center crammed with Georgian buildings, historical monuments, stylish restaurants and hotels and, of course, lots of pubs that together will happily fill a long weekend.

The compact center is divided into the Northside and Southside by the winding River Liffey, which is criss-crossed by bridges (don’t miss pretty, pedestrian Ha'penny Bridge). Most of the main sights are on the Southside, including Trinity College Dublin, home to the striking Long Room and the famous illuminated Book of Kells, the first stop for most visitors. From here, it’s an easy stroll along the city’s main artery, Grafton Street, to the east of which you’ll find the National Gallery (for European and Irish art) and the National Museum (history, culture, archaeology and decorative art).

To the west is the vibrant area of Temple Bar, busy with pedestrians and the place to find the city’s best cafés, bars and independent galleries. Overlooking the area is Dublin Castle, home to the British administration for many centuries, until independence in 1922, and today home to attractive gardens, the State Apartments, the Chapel Royal and a tower dating back to the 13th century.

What to do in Dublin

For more on Ireland’s often troubled history, head to Kilmainham Gaol, an imposing gray building dating back to 1796. Although not in service since the 1920s, the fascinating exhibits provide an insightful look at Irish nationalism over the years.

St Stephen’s Green offers a lovely spot for a stroll through manicured Victorian gardens. Drop into the Museum of Literature Ireland to explore the lives and works of famous writers such as W.B. Yeats, James Joyce and Oscar Wilde. Or for something more lighthearted, the Guinness Storehouse is a fun attraction even for those who don’t have a taste for the dark stout. With interactive displays and a bar with panoramic views, every tour ends with a complimentary freshly-drawn pint of the black stuff.

For a spot of shopping, pedestrianized Grafton Street and Henry Street are the main areas, filled with local and international brands. Explore the side streets for independent shops and boutiques.

What to eat in Dublin

Temple Bar is the place to head to for the largest selection of restaurants, from traditional Irish to authentic Italian or fresh sushi. The Temple Bar Food Market is held on Meeting House Square every Saturday, and is a good place to pick up artisanal cheeses, freshly-baked soda bread and other locally-sourced goodies. For two-Michelin-starred dining, book ahead for Chapter One, known for its excellent fusion cuisine.

Of course, you can’t come to Dublin without spending some quality time in one of its pubs – there are over 700 to choose from. Have a wander, take your pick, order at the bar and soak up the atmosphere. Dubliners are warm by nature, and you’re bound to be caught up in a friendly conversation before too long.

For more information, go to www.visitdublin.com