Dublin is known for its rich tradition and unique musical heritage from traditional to rock. It is the 'City of Living Culture’ in every way possible. It is a cultural spot & boasts a lively theatre and music scene, historic houses and gardens, a rich literary history, wonderful galleries and museums. You can enjoy excellent productions at the Abbey and Peacock, the Gate, the Olympia, the Gaiety, the Project Arts Centre and Andrew's Lane Theatre, which are all in the city centre or the Helix in D.C.U.
With its marvelous castles, exciting nightlife, and lucky stones, Dublin is unique in its own charming way among the capital cities of Europe. Within Dublin are countless places of interest to explore as it has a fascinating history and tradition which makes it very youthful. Its streets are described as bustling and lively which makes Dublin one of the top tourist destinations in Europe.
Souvenirs in Ireland are mainly related to leprechauns & shamrocks. Dublin is very much a jeweller's city & Celtic designs in silver and white gold have become extremely popular. And not to forget the traditional Irish design of the "Claddagh" makes the perfect souvenir.
The peak months of the tourist season are July and August, so consider visiting in May, June or September if you can. The weather is likely to be at least as good and hotels are less busy. Spring flowers are at their best in April and May, and October offers many arts festivals. Winter days have their own sort of atmosphere but darkness falls early, and many sites and attractions are closed, as are a lot of the hotels in holiday areas.
Places to See
Trinity College
Located in the centre of Dublin, Trinity College occupies 47 acres land, with many buildings ranged around large courts and two playing fields. It is Ireland's oldest and most prestigious university. If you visit during the Trinity College you can get a student to give you a guided tour of the campus. During summer months the college also hosts the Dublin Experience, a multimedia exhibit aimed at tourists.
Dublin Castle
The Dublin Castle was built in the 12th-century to defend the city in the past. There is only one tower that remains from the original construction but within the castle complex you can see later buildings including the Royal Chapel, the Portrait Gallery and the State Apartments.
Guinness Storehouse
The Guinness Storehouse is located next to the famous Guinness brewery at St James's Gate & is considered is a major tourist attraction. The tour includes the "Arthur Guinness Story" exhibition and leaves time to sample the "official" best pint of Guinness on the planet in the Gravity Bar afterwards while taking in magnificent views of the city.
Phoenix Park
The Phoenix Park is an enormous 1,700 acres park & the largest enclosed urban park in Europe. The park includes a lot of interesting things to do as it has a sports pitch, a zoo, formal gardens, bird sanctuary & also the President's official residence.
Irish Museum of Modern Art
The Irish museum of modern art is located within a 17th-century building surrounded by expansive grounds and has Ireland's most modern and contemporary works. The museum has a marvelous collection of sculptures, photography and paintings by some of Ireland's leading artists, as well as presenting a wide range of works by big international names such as Gilbert and George, Damien Hirst & many more.
Places to Eat
Johnnie Fox's: Johnnie Fox's is a well-known Irish pub/restaurant. It has a fabulous menu, including excellent seafood.
Chapter One: Chapter One has one of the city's most modern Irish restaurants with a great menu served in formal surroundings, situated in the basement of the Dublin Writers' Museum.
Foggy Dew : The Foggy Dew located in the Temple Bar, offers warm Dublin hospitality & its name relates to a historical Republican song about the war with England.
Gallagher's Boxty House: Gallagher's Boxty House gives you just the opportunity to taste the traditional flavours of Ireland. Favourites such as boxty (an Irish potato cake), colcannon (a type of potato and cabbage mash) alongside a range of Irish stews, steaks and fish are absolutely mind blowing!
Front Lounge: The Front Lounge is a relaxing, cool and expensive bar, but the kind you don’t want to miss!
The Brazen Head: Brazen Head is one of the oldest pubs in Dublin, where you can enjoy a nice drink with live traditional music. |