Dublin is Ireland’s lively, welcoming capital city, famous for its history, literary heritage, traditional Irish pubs, and friendly atmosphere. Compact enough to explore during a weekend break, but packed full of things to see and do, Dublin is an excellent choice for a European city break, any time of year. From historic buildings and vibrant bars to interesting museums and peaceful parks, Dublin truly does have something for everyone. It’s a city where music, cafes, pubs and camaraderie seemingly appear around every corner.
Few places on Earth do pub culture quite like Dublin. Areas such as Temple Bar are the best known, with live music and free-flowing pints poured from mid-morning until the early hours of the following morning, seven days a week. However, the city is packed full of quaint pubs and bars, often with local musicians providing the backing track to your authentic Irish pub experience. Dublin is the home of Guinness, so it’s only natural to sample this legendary stout in the place it was conceived. Let's go
Despite being a largely urbanised capital, Dublin has some excellent green spaces in the city. St Stephen’s Green is right in the city centre and provides an excellent place to relax, while Phoenix Park is one of Europe’s largest enclosed public parks. These spaces are perfect for enjoying a break away from sightseeing – especially if you’re travelling with children. The President of Ireland’s home can also be spotted in Phoenix Park, as well as Dublin Zoo.
Dublin has a long, complex and fascinating history, with examples of it all around the city. There are numerous museums to learn all about Dublin’s – and Ireland’s past – as well as iconic landmarks such as the GPO on O’Connell Street, which served as the rebel headquarters during the 1916 Easter Rising. Dublin Castle and Trinity College are two of the city’s most important historical and cultural landmarks, with centuries of history between them. Kilmainham Gaol also provides an immersive insight into some of the events which shaped modern Ireland. The city’s streets also reveal layers of history wherever you go, making it an excellent choice for history enthusiasts.