Dublin, the vibrant capital of Ireland, is a dynamic city where rich history, culture, and modern innovation come together. With origins dating back to Viking times, Dublin is renowned for its warm and welcoming atmosphere. The city’s cultural heritage is evident in landmarks and attractions, including the fact that parts of the popular series “Vikings” were filmed in nearby Wicklow County. Dublin offers a perfect blend of historical sites, such as a range of free national museums and galleries, alongside contemporary modern attractions. Over the past 20 years, Dublin has become a major technology hub, drawing global companies like Google, Facebook, and Etsy to establish their European headquarters, thanks to its low tax rates. The city is also famous for its distinctive colourful doors, which help differentiate the otherwise similar Georgian buildings. Dublin’s literary legacy is equally impressive, having inspired legendary figures such as James Joyce, Bram Stoker, Oscar Wilde, and the iconic band U2, all of whom have contributed to the city’s ongoing creative energy.
THINGS TO DO
The Trinity College
The Trinity College is the oldest and most prestigious college in Ireland. Many famous people, including Jonathan Swift and Oscar Wilde, studied and graduated there. The main reason why it’s on everyone’s Dublin itinerary is its beautiful Old Library. The famous “Long Room” is the main chamber, where books are stored in side shelves along this 65-meter-long room, adorned with marble busts. An interesting fact is that this library also functions as a legal deposit, meaning that all publishers in Ireland must store a copy of their books there. Around 200,000 books are kept and held sacred here, as they include some of the oldest books in the world, like The Book of Kells, a hand-decorated medieval manuscript from the early Christian period, depicting the four Gospels of the life of Jesus Christ. The library also boasts stunning architecture, all made of oak wood. Apart from visiting the library, you should take a walk around the college and see the Front Square and the Bell Tower, a beautiful structure from 1853. The entrance fee to visit The Trinity College is 16 EUR.
Temple Bar neighbourhood
One of the oldest parts of Dublin is the Temple Bar neighbourhood, especially famous for its nightlife, historical pubs, and live music. It is home to many renowned Irish pubs, such as the iconic Temple Bar and Porterhouse. U2’s lead singer Bono owns a few buildings in the area, including The Clarence Hotel. You should definitely visit here during the day as well to explore its picturesque narrow streets and vintage-style charm. This neighbourhood is also a well-known gathering point for street artists.
The Guinness Storehouse
The 250-year-old brewery is arguably one of the biggest attractions in Dublin. This vast complex, built across several floors, is shaped like a pint of Guinness. During the tour, you’ll visit the actual factory where the beer is produced and walk through the entire brewing process. In the tasting rooms, you’ll learn how to properly drink a Guinness and discover some fun facts in the cinematic areas. You’ll end your tour at the top floor’s “Gravity Bar”, where you’ll enjoy a complimentary pint of Guinness while taking in panoramic views of Dublin. Did you know that more than 10 million pints of Guinness are sold every day worldwide?
Old Jameson Distillery
If beer isn’t your drink of choice, consider visiting the Old Jameson Distillery, located on the historic site where Jameson whiskey was originally crafted and distilled. During the tour, you’ll delve into the history and traditional process of whiskey production. You’ll also participate in a tasting experience, learning about the various types of whiskey, and at the end, you’ll be rewarded with an official Whiskey Taster Certificate.
Experience Gaelic Games
For sports enthusiasts Experience Gaelic Games offers a unique opportunity to dive into Irish culture through its traditional sports. Located in Dublin, this activity lets you try iconic Gaelic games such as hurling, Gaelic football, and handball, guided by passionate instructors. These sports are deeply rooted in Ireland’s history and community spirit, making it a fun and immersive way to connect with local traditions while enjoying a bit of friendly competition. Perfect for individuals, families, or groups, it’s a must-try experience for anyone seeking to explore Ireland beyond the usual tourist attractions.
O’Connell Street and O’Connell Bridge
O’Connell Street, the widest street in Europe at 49 meters, is one of Dublin’s most iconic landmarks. Lined with shops, monuments, and historical buildings, it serves as a central hub of activity in the city. Adding to its uniqueness is the O’Connell Bridge, a remarkable structure that holds the distinction of being the only bridge in Europe wider than it is long. This bustling area is a must-see for anyone exploring Dublin’s rich history and vibrant city life.
The Christ Church Cathedral and St. Patrick’s Cathedral
Dublin is home to two significant churches: Christ Church Cathedral, built on the site of a Viking temple, and St. Patrick’s Cathedral, the largest church in Ireland. St. Patrick’s Cathedral is a symbol of Irish Christianity, as it marks the place where St. Patrick, the patron saint of Dublin, converted and baptized pagans. An interesting fact is that Jonathan Swift, the renowned author of Gulliver’s Travels, served as Dean of St. Patrick’s Cathedral and is buried there. Both churches are open to the public, offering a chance to admire their stunning interiors and learn about their rich history.
Ha’ Penny Bridge
Ha’penny Bridge, officially known as the Liffey Bridge, was the first pedestrian bridge built across the River Liffey. In the past, pedestrians were required to pay a “halfpenny” toll to cross, which is where the bridge gets its name. Today, it stands as a popular tourist attraction and iconic photo spot, with images of the bridge frequently featured on postcards and city guides.
Phoenix Park
Phoenix Park is the largest enclosed public park in Europe, so vast that it houses several attractions, including Dublin Zoo, the Presidential and US Ambassador’s residences, the Wellington Monument, and various sports fields. Originally established as a royal hunting park, it still hosts a population of free-roaming fallow deer. Renting a bike to explore the park’s natural beauty or enjoying a leisurely afternoon picnic are great ways to experience its charm.
Dublin Castle
Dublin Castle is one of the most historically significant buildings in Ireland. Originally developed as a medieval fortress on elevated ground once occupied by a Viking settlement, the castle has been central to Irish history. Although much of it was destroyed by a fire in 1686, parts of the medieval and Viking structures survived and are now open to visitors. You can explore the castle through self-guided or guided tours, which include its beautifully restored rooms, lush gardens, and fascinating museums.
GUIDED TOURS THAT TAKE YOU TO DUBLIN CASTLE AND OTHER SITES
Shopping
You can enjoy a pleasant walk along Grafton Street, one of Dublin’s two main shopping streets, filled with a mix of vintage and high-end stores, as well as charming restaurants and bars. The street leads to St. Stephen’s Green, a picturesque and romantic park surrounded by elegant Georgian houses—a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city center to relax in nature. The other main shopping street, Henry Street, is home to a variety of shops and the Spire of Dublin, a striking 120-meter stainless steel monument.
Dublin Go City Pass
The Dublin Go City Pass is a convenient and cost-effective way to explore the city’s top attractions while saving money. This all-in-one pass grants you access to popular sites like the Guinness Storehouse, Dublin Zoo, Big Bus Dublin Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour, Dublin Castle, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Christ Church Cathedral, National Wax Museum, Game of Thrones Studio Tour, and the Jameson Distillery, along with many museums, guided tours, and cultural experiences. With the flexibility to choose between a one, two, three, or five-day pass, you can tailor your sightseeing to fit your schedule. The pass also includes skip-the-line privileges at select attractions, making it ideal for travelers looking to maximize their time in Dublin.
Cliffs of Moher
You can’t leave Ireland without a visit to the Cliffs of Moher. One of the most popular natural attractions in Ireland attract over 1.5 million visitors a year. Stretching 14 km along the Atlantic Ocean, with a maximum height of 214 meters, the cliffs offer breathtaking views. This spectacular scenery was one of the highlights of our trip. You can either take a day trip bus tour from Dublin, or rent a car and drive there yourself. We personally preferred renting a car, as we were a large group, which made it more affordable and gave us greater freedom. Keep in mind, it’s a 3-hour-plus drive, and driving on the left side of the road can be tricky if it’s your first time. We recommend leaving early in the morning to ensure you have plenty of time to explore and fully enjoy the experience, as it’s something truly unique. While the weather is often cold, windy, and rainy, it shouldn’t stop you from visiting. If you have some extra time, you should also consider visiting Galway, as it’s a wonderful town.
BOOK YOUR CLIFFS OF MOHER TOUR HERE
RESTAURANTS & BARS
Dublin boasts a vibrant food and drink scene, offering a diverse array of restaurants, bars, and cafes to suit every taste and budget. Whether you’re craving traditional Irish dishes like hearty stews or fish and chips, or exploring international cuisines, the city delivers on all fronts. For a taste of authentic Irish hospitality, iconic pubs like The Temple Bar and The Brazen Head (the oldest pub in Ireland) serve up classic Irish fare paired with a perfect pint of Guinness. Dublin’s restaurant scene is equally impressive, featuring everything from cozy bistros to Michelin-starred establishments like Chapter One by Mickael Viljanen and Liath. Popular dining spots include Ryleigh’s, WILDE Restaurant, FIRE Steakhouse & Bar, Mister S, The Church Café Bar, and 1900 Restaurant. If you’re looking for a standout recommendation, The Landmark serves what might be the best chicken burgers with coleslaw you’ll ever try! Dublin is also renowned for its stylish cocktail bars, such as Peruke & Perkin and The Vintage Cocktail Club, where you can enjoy expertly crafted drinks in a relaxed, elegant atmosphere. Whether you’re sipping a casual pint or indulging in fine dining, Dublin truly offers something for everyone.
ACCOMMODATION
Dublin offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Luxury travelers can indulge in upscale hotels with top-notch amenities, while boutique hotels provide stylish and unique experiences. Budget-conscious visitors will find affordable options such as hostels, guesthouses, or budget hotels in and around the city center. Hotels located in the very heart of Dublin can be quite expensive, so if you’re looking to save money, consider staying further out. However, keep in mind that you may need to rely on public transportation, such as buses, to reach the city centre.
Luxury Hotels in Dublin:
- The Merrion Hotel: Situated in the heart of Dublin, The Merrion is renowned for its exquisite comfort and elegant design, featuring an 18-meter pool, spa, and gym.
- The Shelbourne, Autograph Collection: An iconic five-star hotel offering unparalleled luxury and exceptional service, located centrally with rich historical significance.
- Anantara The Marker Dublin Hotel: A contemporary hotel located in the Docklands, providing modern amenities and a rooftop bar with panoramic city views.
- The Westbury: A luxury boutique hotel in central Dublin, combining modern amenities with stylish design, placing guests in the heart of the city’s social and cultural scene.
- InterContinental Dublin, an IHG Hotel: A five-star hotel set in a tranquil location, offering spacious rooms, a spa, and fine dining options.
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Boutique Hotels in Dublin:
- Dylan Hotel Dublin: A chic boutique hotel known for its contemporary style and personalized service, located in a fashionable area of the city.
- The Morgan Hotel: Situated in the vibrant Temple Bar district, this hotel offers stylish rooms with modern décor, ideal for those seeking a lively atmosphere.
- Kellys Hotel: Located in the cultural quarter, this small hotel offers boutique rooms and free Wi-Fi, just a short walk from Grafton Street and Temple Bar.
- The Dean Dublin: A modern boutique hotel featuring contemporary art and a rooftop terrace, providing a trendy stay in the city center.
- The Clarence Hotel: Owned by members of the band U2, this boutique hotel offers a unique blend of classic and modern design, situated in the heart of Dublin.
- The Alex: stylish, modern hotel offering contemporary rooms, a chic bar, and an ideal location near Trinity College and Merrion Square.
Budget Hotels in Dublin:
- Blooms Hotel: Located in Temple Bar, offering affordable rates with an on-site bar and restaurant, ideal for travelers seeking central accommodation.
- Harcourt Hotel: Offering competitive rates with comfortable rooms and an on-site bar, situated close to St. Stephen’s Green.
- Mespil Hotel: A well-rated budget option providing modern amenities and complimentary breakfast, located near the Grand Canal.
- Dublin One: A stylish and affordable hotel offering contemporary rooms, a trendy bar, and a convenient location
TRANSPORTATION
We started our 3 days trip by flying to Dublin airport (which is probably the best option for visiting Ireland in general). You can easily get to Dublin city centre by taking the “Airlink” bus (number 747 or 757). It is worth to buy a “leap card” which gives you a discount up to 30% on the public transportation. You can find their office in the terminal building. If you want to avoid the hassle you can book your bus tickets online at 12go. Once you arrive to the centre, you can just walk around the city as it’s quite small and distances can easily be covered on foot.
When traveling outside of Dublin, Ireland offers a variety of transportation options to explore the rest of the country. The train network, operated by Irish Rail, connects Dublin to major cities like Cork, Galway, and Limerick, providing a comfortable and scenic way to travel. Long-distance buses, such as those operated by Bus Éireann or private companies like GoBus, offer affordable travel options to towns and smaller cities. You can book your train and bus tickets online at 12go.
For more flexibility, renting a car is a popular choice, especially for those who want to explore rural areas and the picturesque countryside at their own pace. You can book your car online at RentalCars.
Additionally, flights from Dublin Airport make it easy to reach other parts of Ireland and beyond.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
The best time to visit Dublin and the Cliffs of Moher is during spring (April to June) or early autumn (September to October). These months offer mild and pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Summer can be crowded with tourists, while winter tends to be cold and rainy, particularly at the Cliffs of Moher. Spring and autumn provide a quieter experience with fewer crowds and stunning landscapes, making them perfect for exploring Dublin’s vibrant city life and the breathtaking beauty of the Cliffs of Moher. Ireland’s weather is generally oceanic, even in inland areas, and highly unpredictable due to the lack of mountains, which leaves the land exposed to strong winds. This results in consistently cool temperatures, so we recommend wearing multiple layers to adapt to changing conditions.
CURRENCY
Ireland uses the Euro (€) as its official currency.
1 USD = 0,98 EUR
1 GBP = 1,19 EUR
We recommend you to carry cash with you everywhere, as you won’t always be able to pay with card.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
We recommend to book a travel insurance for every trip as you never know what could happen. It’s not easy to deal with any kind of problems when you are abroad, so it’s definitely worth it to be covered and travel with peace of mind.
We use IATI travel insurance and you can book yours through our link and receive 5% discount.
BOOK HERE IF YOU ARE FROM THE EU
BOOK HETE IF YOU ARE FROM OUTSIDE THE EU (REST OF THE WORLD)
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We hope this blog post was helpful to you and you are gonna have a great time while exploring Dublin and Cliffs of Moher. For more pictures and videos check out our IG story highlight (Dublin) and our reels/feed posts. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to comment bellow or contact us via email or even better via Instagram @borntotraveldiaries. Thank you for your time and stay tuned for our next diary page 🙂.
