Fancy a trip to Dublin?
Trinity College Library
Why Dublin
Dublin is a lively vibrant city with lots of heritage and culture on offer. It’s a city of contrasts happily combining the old with the new in creative and innovative ways. Voted one of the friendliest cities in the world, you will find a ready smile and a helping hand wherever you go.
Where to stay
For a little luxury, stay at The Fitzwilliam, The Westbury or Brooks – all located near St Stephen’s Green.
For mid-price range try these hotels in the heart of the city – Arlington, Handels and Leonardo’s.
On a budget – Tipperary House, Jacob’s Inn Hostel, Abraham’s Hostel – all centrally located. There’s loads more!
Getting Around the City
Like most major European cities, Dublin has a Hop On, Hop Off Bus Service, numerous taxi ranks and buses.
You can hire a bike for the day at a reasonable cost and easily booked via the Web.
Call in at the Tourism Office in Upper O’Connell Street for local transport details. If you want to go further afield, there are day coach tours to places like the Cliffs of Moher, Blarney Castle, Giant’s Causeway and Titanic Centre Belfast. Details can be found at the Tourism Office.
A Bite to Eat
Stop for an Irish Coffee at Bewley’s on Grafton Street.
If it’s a good Irish Stew you’re after, try The Old Mill Restaurant in Temple Bar Square.
To experience some great Irish music and dancing while dining, head for O’Flaherty’s Pub in Crown Alley.
For something more contemporary, splash out a little at The Pig’s Ear in Nassau Street.
A Wee Bit of Shopping
Grafton Street is the main shopping street in Dublin and there you will find the department store of Brown Thomas.
Just off Grafton Street, you will find Powers Court Shopping Centre.
Jervis Shopping Centre can be found in Mary Street.
Well Worth It
Irish Whiskey Museum – Grafton Street - A guided tour of the history of whiskey making in Ireland from knowledgeable experts, and some whiskey tasting too!
Historical Walking Tour – a great way to navigate around Dublin led by an entertaining guide. Starts from the gates of Trinity College.
Book of Kells Tour – You will not be disappointed with a good look at this awesome 9thcentury book. The tour also includes a visit to Trinity College Library and Dublin Castle. Starts from the front of Trinity College.present. Free entry.
A Bit Of Culture
Check out what’s on at the famous Abbey Theatre during your visit.
The National Gaelic Football Stadium can be found at Croke Park – try to get to see a game and soak up the great atmosphere.
If you are looking for Irish made products, visit Avoca in Suffolk Street and the independent shops in Nassau Street.
For traditional music and dancing, there is no shortage of daily sessions. The Arlington Hotel serves a three-course dinner nightly with a stunning Irish Show afterwards. This is sure to get your feet tapping. For a more informal evening, try The Quays in Temple Bar Square.
The Dublin Literary Pub Crawl takes place most days and is led by actors performing from the works of the City’s best-known writers. Meet your guide at Trinity College. Ranked #4 SUNDAY TIMES World’s 50 Best Walks and Ranked #2. in LONELY Planet GUIDE: Top 10 Literary Walks of the World.
Festival Time
Throughout the year Dublin hosts a wide variety of festivals and events. Here are just a few of them.
February: Film Festival
April: Offset – Irish Designers Showcase
June: Forbidden Fruit Music Festival
August: BBQ and Craft Beer Festival
October: Busker Fleadh - (This one is definitely not to be missed)
December: New Year Lights Festival
January: Tradfest – Traditional Irish and Folk Music
March: Dublin Bay Prawn Festival; St Patrick’s Festival
May: Dance Festival
July: Longitude Music Festival; Festival of Curiosity
September: Canalaphonic Music Festival; Theatre and Fringe Festival
November: Dublin Gallery Festival