Set at the mouth of the River Liffrey, Dublin is the capital and the largest port in Ireland. Dublin is a city that has managed to retain much of its elegant Georgian heritage, but still manage to be a surprisingly young and festive place, well known throughout the world for its great atmosphere and the welcoming locals.
Best known for its famous alcoholic drink, Guinness, as well as its canning and textile industries, and of course Oscar Wilde and Jonathan Swift, Dublin is the main industrial and commercial center of the Republic of Ireland. The seductive power of Dublin is immense, in case you’ve never been here – it captivates all who visit – it’s something to do with the festive atmosphere mixed into an intense cosmopolitans style. On the other hand, maybe it’s Leprechauns?
Green Dublin
A tremendous transformation has taken place over a space of 50 years here, rising from little more than a minor port back when, Dublin now ranks as one of the most beautiful, and busiest European capitals.
The beauty of Dublin becomes all too apparent with a walk along its vibrant streets, past beautiful Georgian houses of odd shapes and with colorful doors. Dublin is also one of Europe’s greenest cities, with hundreds of public parks and gardens, seemingly every single neighborhood has its own recreation space! Along with the refreshing sea breeze, the bridges and vast docklands, they conspire to make Dublin a unique attraction.
Ireland's capital is famous for its rich cultural life. The Temple Bar district is where it’s at. Home to numerous theaters, cinemas, art galleries and artist studios, Dublin is the equal of other famous European destinations in terms of its appreciation of life. Art lovers will be overwhelmed by the choice of museums to visit, such as the Writer’s Museum which displays works by Oscar Wilde, John Banim and Abraham Stocker, while the Trinity College is an essential stop on anybody’s itinerary, featuring the illuminated Kells Manuscript and many other incredibly old books from the Dark Ages.
And Shopping Too
Other sights worthy of a mention include the Dublin Castle, first built in the 900s by the Vikings, then renovated later by the English in a Georgian style. Similarly, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, the biggest place of worship in the city and built in honor of the country’s patron saint, is a magnificent example of Middle Age architecture.
For shoppers, Grafton Street and St Stephen's Green Centre are the places to go, with seemingly hundreds of boutiques and high street chains.
Lastly, no visit to Dublin is complete without sampling Ireland’s most famous export – Guinness. And where better to do so than in the brewery itself? Head to St. James’ Gate and embark on a once-in-a-lifetime tour of how this unique drink is created, then head up to the “Seventh Heaven”, the top floor of the factory and enjoy a beautiful panoramic view while sipping on a delicious pint of the world’s finest stout – pure heaven.
Main attractions: Dublin Castle, Christ Church Cathedral, Samuel Beckett Bridge, Trinity College, Custom House, Dublin Castle, O'Connell Bridge, Spire of Dublin, and so many more.
Currency: Pound Sterling (GBP)
Official language: UK English
Area: 114.99 km2 (44.4 sq mi)
Population: 1,801,040
Electricity:
- Voltage: 220-240 Volts (U.S./Canada are 110-120 Volts)
- Primary Socket Type: British BS-1363
- Multi-voltage appliances (laptops, etc.)
- 110-120V electronics: Plug adapter + step-down transformer
- Hair dryers, curling irons, etc.: Plug adapter + voltage converter
Other places to see & things to do: O'Connell Street, St Stephen's Green, Grafton Street, Ulster Bank, George's Quay Plaza, University College Dublin, and the nearby countryside especially, plus many more attractions in town.
Images courtesy: Graham Elle, Joachim S. Müller, Alessandro Grussu
Report an error
Pick from among 2 holiday destinations in Dublin.
Compare 85 reviewed hotels and guest houses in Dublin before booking your holiday.
