The best way to see the sights around Dublin is to do a walking tour. With the historic center of Dublin being compact, it’s easy to navigate the streets and wander around the many historic landmarks and museums. There is a 3 hour walk that hits 21 sights, but I found that there is no way you can truly enjoy the sights at that pace. Not to mention you will be exhausted. I suggest breaking it up into two different days.
On your first day we set out down Dawson street headed for St Stephen’s green. Before you take a stroll trough the tranquil garden stop at the Celtic Whiskey Shop. Where you can sample a large verity of whiskies from around Ireland.
If you are less interested in the history of Dublin, you can always to a pub crawl. If there is one thing to be said about Dublin its that there is not shortage a great pubs. Be sure to visit Temple Bar square and hit up the Brazen Head, which is the older pub in Ireland.
St Stephen’s Green
St. Stephen’s Green has a gory past as being a medieval commons, where public executions where carried out. In 1664 the square started its transformation to a more civilized area surrounded by Georgian buildings. Today its a tranquil 22 acre park were visitors can enjoy the many flower gardens. If you are traveling with children the park is a great place to let them run wild.
St Patrick's Cathedral
St Patrick's Cathedral is undoubtedly a landmark of Dublin that can’t be missed! It has played an important role in the long history of Ireland after being founded in 1119.
The Cathedral houses the Living Stones that celebrates St Patricks role in the life of Dublin and its history.
Check out the official website for more information, the entry is free with the Dublin Pass.
St Patrick Cathedral
Christ Church Cathedral
Christ Church Cathedral is the oldest building in Dublin. The original wooden church was constructed in 1030 by King Sitriuc in the late Viking times. The interior of the Cathedral features exquisite stained glass and tile floors that are contrasted by the gothic nave. Beneath the cathedral lies one of the largest medieval crypts in Europe and the oldest surviving structure in Dublin. If you want a unique lunch experience check out the cafe down in the crypts.
While you're taking in the beautiful architecture of the Cathedral, be sure to cross over to St. Michael’s Hill for a history lesson in the Dublinia tour. There are three different sections in the exhibit, Viking Dublin, Medieval Dublin and Death and Disease. All show casing the deep history of Dublin and Ireland.
This is a great stop for families and history lovers.
April-September 10am-5pm October - February 10am-4:30pm, more information on the official website. Free entry with the Dublin Pass.
Guinness Storehouse and Old Jameson Distillery
No visit to Dublin is complete with out a tour of both the Guinness Storehouse and the Old Jameson Distillery.
The Guinness storehouse is the top attraction in Dublin and is located at the center of the Guinness Brewery at St. James’s Gate. The seven-story tour inside an old fermentation plant takes you through the 250 year history of the “Black Stuff”. Conclude the tour with a complementary pint at the Gravity Bar, while enjoying spectacular views over Dublin.
At the Old Jameson Distillery you will inverse yourself in the deep history of whiskey distillation. Jameson is known for its Angels Share and triple distillation. After the tour enjoy a glass of Jameson and grab a bite at the restaurant. For a personalized souvenir grab a bottle of Jameson 12 year Old Reserve that can only be found at the distillery store.
The Guinness Storehouse: Open all year, 7 days a week 9;30am- 5pm. Its a 15 min walk from the city center or there are horse drawn carriages that also make the trip, more information on the official website.
Old Jameson Distillery: Open 7 days a week, year round. Mon-Sat 9am-6pm, Sun 10am-6pm, Last tour 5:30pm. More information on the official website.
Temple Bar Pub
Our last night in Dublin is bitter sweet. No trip to Dublin is complete with out a stop at the famous Temple bar pub. There is not doubt I am going to miss this place, it has been amazing touring around the city and experiencing all it has to offer. Even if we only scratched the surface.
Where to Stay
* The Spire Hostel Dublin - is on the North side of the river on Marlboroug St. $
* Temple Bar Inn - located in Temple Bar Square right in the middle of the action. $$
* Jackson Court Hotel - located on Harcout St and a short walk from St. Stephen’s Green $$
For more great Hostels and Hotels install the Hostel World app.
Where to Eat
* The Brazen Head - Ireland oldest pub has a great atmosphere with live music and classic dishes. $
* L’Gueuleton - a lively Fence-Style bistro, its very busy to get there early. $$
* The Guinness Storehouse - enjoy a pint and great food. $$
