Dublin Travel Guide
A fun city with a thousand years of history and culture to explore, Dublin epitomises the Irish spirit of jollity and ancestral pride. It has a well-earned reputation as a party destination, and the nightlife is the greatest attraction for those who descend upon the Temple Bar District. However, there is a lot more to Dublin than Guinness and pub-grub.
The capital of the Emerald Isle is overflowing with cultural and historical attractions, and traditional sightseers delight in the city just as much as those who come for the wonderful food, booze and music. Dublin has a rich literary heritage, having produced some beloved and iconic writers, including James Joyce, Samuel Beckett, Oscar Wilde and W. B. Yeats. The city also offers visitors some fascinating museums and tours.
Best time to visit Dublin
The summer months, between May and August, are the best time to visit. Dublin is a rainy city year-round and seldom gets hot, but the summer weather is pleasantly warm and often sunny. The city is more expensive during these peak months, however, so budget travellers should consider visiting Dublin out of season. A popular time for a Dublin holiday is around St Patrick's Day, at the end of March, when the city is even more festive than usual.
What to see in Dublin
-Visit Saint Patrick's Cathedral, Ireland's largest church.
-See the award-winning Yeats exhibition at the National Library of Ireland.
-Explore the National Museums of Ireland, which contain countless treasures.
-Wander around the lovely campus of Trinity College and see the ancient Book of Kells.
What to do in Dublin
-Take a tour of the lavish State Apartments in Dublin Castle.
-Enjoy a pint at the very popular Guinness Storehouse.
-Party in the famous Temple Bar District with its many quality pubs, clubs and restaurants.
-Learn how whiskey is made at the Old Jameson Distillery, founded in the 1770s.
Beyond Dublin
Dublin is a wonderful springboard to the rest of Ireland with many worthwhile attractions, such as Clonmacnoise, just outside of the city for those who want to take excursions with Dublin as their base. Ireland is a small country and both Galway and Limerick are easily reached from Dublin.
Getting there
Dublin International Airport is Ireland's busiest airport and receives flights from the UK and the US. The airport is situated seven miles (11km) north of Dublin, near the M50 and M1 motorways.
Did you know?
-It is estimated that about 50 percent of Dublin's population is under 25.
-The Brazen Head Pub in Dublin, established in 1198, is thought to be the oldest pub in Ireland.
-The Carmelite Church in Dublin claims to hold the remains of Saint Valentine.