Dublin is a lively capital city that’s as intimate as a village and as friendly as your local Irish pub. With its seamless blend of classic visitor sights, excellent social scene and the natural playgrounds of Dublin Bay and the Dublin Mountains framing it on all sides, this laidback city is an adventure in itself.
Want to catch some local talent? Make your way to a gig. Feeling hungry? Indulge in old Dublin favourites at The Woollen Mills. And if you want to slow the pace a little, stroll the city’s charming coastal villages like Howth or Dalkey or follow one of the Dublin Walks to uncover the city’s surroundings. You see, Dublin is all about the muse behind the music, the craic (fun) of the comedy, the intimate feel of this urban hub. And, of course, the people! Dublin has been named Europe’s friendliest city twice by TripAdvisor for good reason. So grab a pint, strike up a conversation, and settle in for the experience of a lifetime.
Dublin – it’s not one thing, it’s a million little things! Of course, you have to start somewhere, so we have come up with a list of 20 that should serve as a good starting point!
1. It’s great value for money
If you’re thinking about taking a trip to Dublin, here’s some good news: it’s never been better value. You’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to quality, affordable accommodation, food and drink, and getting around won’t break the bank either.
2. It’s easy to get to
Whether you come by plane or take the boat, you’ll find yourself in Dublin in no time at all. Flights to Dublin arrive from approximately 179 international destinations, including daily flights to and from approximately 29 UK airports, and direct ferries run here from Holyhead and Liverpool – so start planning your Dublin trip!
3. Accommodation
Our range of accommodation in Dublin boasts 20,000 hotel bedrooms across a wide variety of 3, 4 and 5 star properties.
4. Historic Venues
Dublin offers a fascinating mix of historic venues from Medieval crypts and 17th century theatres to castles, Georgian townhouses, libraries and old military hospitals.
5. Modern Venues
From breweries, science museums, a purpose built convention centre, a Gaelic Football stadium, a ‘thinking factory’. We have plenty of classy and quirky venues in Dublin.
6. The coastline
Dublin’s a great city – but it’s so much more than that. Travel north or south of the city centre by DART rail service, car, bus or bike, and you’ll find a sparkling string of coastal towns, beaches, harbours and bracing sea views. And where there’s sea, there’s delicious Irish seafood!
7. The friendly locals
Ireland is famous for the friendliness of its people, and we’re proud to say that you’ll have no problem making friends in Dublin. We love a chat, we’ll always do what we can to help, and we’ve even been known to be ‘up for the craic’ every now and then!
8. Our spacious parks and gardens
On sublime summer days like these, you just want to be outside, so why not join the countless Dubliners who love to get out and enjoy ‘the lungs of the city’? From the historic Phoenix Park to the central St Stephen’s Green, to name but two, Dublin is full of beautiful, relaxing green spaces.
9. Our castles
No exploration of Dublin should be complete without at least one visit to a castle. From Dublin Castle in the heart of the city to the suburban sites in Malahide, Swords, Balbriggan, Dalkey and Drimnagh, you will discover that they’re all impressive examples of ancient architecture.
10. The beautiful beaches
You may not think of Dublin as one of the world’s great beach destinations, but a short trip outside the city centre will bring you to any number of gorgeous sandy stretches. They’re perfect for walks and views, activities like kite surfing, and – of course – ice cream!
11. Our cultural quarter
Dublin’s Temple Bar district richly deserves its status as the city’s Cultural Quarter. As well as its many fine bars and restaurants, you’ll find plenty of cool independent fashion and design shops, colourful outdoor markets and award-winning architectural spaces.
12. The River Liffey
Running through the heart of Dublin, and culturally celebrated by everyone from Joyce to Radiohead, the River Liffey is both water and power supply for the city. It is also used by commercial and recreational craft and once a year, hundreds of hardy souls attempt the historic Liffey Swim! Each of the many bridges that spans the river has its own history and style.
13. Our glorious food
Whether you fancy Michelin-starred dining, cosy cafés, tasty Irish classics, the best in world cuisine, bustling food markets, or fresh seafood straight from the coast, Dublin’s a place with something to suit all tastes in Irish food. We’re hungry just writing this!
14. Our live music scene
Whatever type of music you’re into, you’re never far from a gig in Dublin. Live traditional Irish music sessions take place nightly in dozens of pubs and hotels, and there are plenty of concert venues and clubs hosting local and international bands, artists and DJs.
15. Lots of free things to see and do
Not only is Ireland more affordable than ever, you can also enjoy so many things to do in Dublin during your visit without spending a single euro. From museums and galleries to parks, gardens and festivals, they’re all fantastic – and free!
16. Our Georgian heritage
From gardens to galleries, townhouses and squares, you’ll find magnificently preserved examples of the architecture and style of Georgian Dublin all over. Most noticeable, of course, is our countless number of gorgeous Georgian doors!
17. Our stunning mountain views
Even in the city centre, there are places in Dublin where you can spot mountains in the distance, but to really get the full vista, take the DART to Howth. While walking around Howth Head, you can enjoy a breath-taking panorama that includes both the Wicklow and Mourne Mountains.
18. Our glorious golf courses
If you’re wondering whether there are any Dublin golf courses, let us assure you that there are! You’ll find some of Europe’s best links courses along our local coastline, and the scenery alone will ensure that these good walks will never be spoiled.
19. We’ve so much history
As you’d expect from a city that’s more than 1,000 years old, there’s ancient history to discover all over Dublin. From streets and buildings to cultural objects, you’ll find remnants of our Victorian, Georgian, medieval and even Viking eras!
20. Our many traditional pubs
We’re always happy to tell you about the craic, atmosphere, culture, music and history of Dublin pubs, but really, there’s no substitute for experience. And it goes without saying that you’re always very welcome to come and sample it all for yourself!
21. The Guinness Storehouse
Year in, year out, The Guinness Storehouse is Dublin’s most visited attraction, and with good reason! You can learn about the history of ‘the black stuff’ and discover how it’s made, pull your own pint, enjoy The Gravity Bar’s stunning panoramic views and more.