Dublin: What to See, Facts & Flights
Dublin is the capital of Ireland and its political, cultural and economic center, with an approximate population of 590,000 inhabitants. It is visited for its literary heritage, its history marked by independence and an intense social life that combines traditional pubs with a contemporary cultural scene.
What to see
Trinity College and the Book of Kells are the obligatory starting point: the illuminated manuscript from the 9th century is exhibited in the university library, and the Long Room, its main hall, impresses with its collection of old books. A few minutes away, Dublin Castle, built on a Viking settlement, offers guided tours of its state rooms and the medieval tower.
The Guinness Storehouse, in the former brewery, is the most visited museum in the country: it explains the brewing process and ends in a circular bar with panoramic views. Temple Bar, although touristy, retains cobbled streets and colorful facades, ideal for a first contact with the city.
Neighborhoods and how to get around
The center is compact and can be walked without problem. The River Liffey divides the city in two: to the south are Trinity, the Castle and Grafton Street, the main shopping street; to the north, the O’Connell Street area, with the monument to Daniel O’Connell and the GPO building, witness to the Easter Rising of 1916. The Temple Bar neighborhood is located south of the river, between O’Connell Bridge and Ha’penny Bridge, and concentrates galleries, craft shops and pubs with live music.
To move further away, the urban bus and tram (Luas) cover the outskirts, but most tourist points of interest are less than twenty minutes walking distance. The Liffey docks, to the east, have gained restaurants and modern offices, although they retain the port atmosphere.
Museums and theaters
Away from the main circuit, the National Museum of Ireland – in its Archaeology and Natural History branches – displays everything from the Ardagh Chalice to stuffed animals, with free admission. The National Gallery of Ireland has a collection of European and Irish art that includes works by Caravaggio and Jack B. Yeats, and is also free.
The Abbey Theatre, founded by Yeats and Lady Gregory, remains the national theater and programs classic and contemporary plays. The Gate Theatre, smaller, is known for its productions of Irish and foreign authors. Both are a few minutes from the center and offer performances almost every night.
Eating and nightlife
Dublin cuisine has left behind its reputation for being heavy: there are markets like George’s Street Arcade and restaurants serving fresh fish, lamb and seasonal vegetables. The most traditional dish is coddle (sausage and potato stew), but international options abound, especially Asian and quality fast food.
Nightlife revolves around the pub. Temple Bar is the busiest area, with live music every afternoon, but Dubliners usually prefer venues further north, such as those on Capel Street. Stout beer dominates, although there are several local microbreweries. Closing time is usually late, and the atmosphere is conversational and unpretentious.
- Trinity College: 16th-century university campus with the Book of Kells and its historic library.
- Guinness Storehouse: interactive museum of Ireland's most famous beer, with a panoramic bar.
- Temple Bar: pedestrian neighborhood of pubs, galleries and shops, epicenter of tourism and music.
- Dublin Castle: historical complex with medieval tower, state rooms and gardens.
- National Museum of Archaeology: collection of Celtic goldsmithing and Viking objects, free admission.
Frequently asked questions
How much time is needed to see the essentials?
Two full days are enough for Trinity, the Castle, the Guinness Storehouse and a walk through Temple Bar. If you want to add a free museum or an afternoon in a pub with music, three days are more comfortable. The city is not large and walking distances are quick.
Is eating and drinking expensive in Dublin?
Yes, it is one of the most expensive capitals in Europe. A pint of stout costs what is usual in a big city, and a simple meal in a pub is around the price of an average menu. To save money, it is advisable to look for daily menus during the week and avoid the most touristy areas of Temple Bar for drinks.