The Merchants Arch
DUBLIN ATTRACTIONS
Explore the Best of Ireland's Capital
Living in Dublin offers a remarkable advantage – easy access to an incredible array of world-class galleries, museums, and cultural treasures right at your doorstep. Dublin's rich history and vibrant culture ensure you'll always have fascinating places to explore. What's more, many of these attractions are free of charge. In the following guide, we'll introduce you to some of the finest attractions that Dublin has to offer.
The Book of Kells at Trinity College
The Book of Kells, a 9th-century Gospel copy, is a true marvel. It's intricately adorned, utterly unique, and astonishingly well-preserved. Your visit also includes a stroll through Trinity College's iconic Long Room Library, a destination in itself. Situated at the heart of Dublin, this attraction should be at the top of your list.
The Guinness Storehouse
Since 1759, the world of Guinness has resided at St James' Gate, and with a 9,000-year lease, it's here to stay. A visit to the Storehouse offers insight into Guinness's creation and its journey to becoming one of the world's most renowned brands. Your tour culminates with a taste of the iconic stout while you enjoy a 360-degree view of the city. If you have ancestors who worked at Guinness, you can also explore the company's genealogy records.
National Botanic Gardens
Open daily and offering free admission, the National Botanic Gardens boasts some of Ireland's most lush and enchanting horticultural treasures. With over 15,000 plant species, including 300 endangered and six extinct species, the gardens are a botanical wonderland. The Victorian-style glasshouses house some of the most exotic specimens, and various tours and exhibitions are frequently available.
St. Patrick's Cathedral
This awe-inspiring Church of Ireland cathedral combines breathtaking beauty with historical significance, and it continues to serve as a place of worship, eight centuries after its construction. Marvel at the stunning architecture, vibrant stained glass windows, and enjoy a cup of coffee in the charming attached park. If possible, attend a choral recital, as the cathedral's choir played a role in the world premiere of Handel's Messiah in 1742, and their musical tradition endures.
Christ Church Cathedral
Christ Church Cathedral, a Viking cathedral dating back a millennium, is conveniently located near St. Patrick's Cathedral. If you visit one, be sure to explore the other. Christ Church houses religious relics, Ireland's first Magna Carta, and the tomb of Strongbow, making it one of Dublin's premier attractions.
Dublin Castle
Built on the site of an ancient Viking settlement in the 13th century, Dublin Castle once served as the seat of British rule in Ireland. Today, it is where Ireland's Presidents are inaugurated. The castle's expansive grounds have witnessed centuries of victories and defeats, remaining an enduring feature in Dublin's ever-changing landscape. While at the castle, attend a choir performance in the chapel, tour the State Apartments, explore the beautiful gardens, or visit the Chester Beatty Museum, one of Dublin's finest.
GPO Witness
History On O'Connell Street stands the General Post Office (GPO), one of Dublin's most grandiose Georgian buildings. In 1916, it played a pivotal role as a stronghold during the Easter Rising, Ireland's most famous rebellion against British rule. Today, the GPO houses a museum commemorating the events that transpired within its walls. Through and immersive and interactive self-guided tour, you'll gain insight into the rising and itaftermath.
The National Leprechaun Museum
For over a decade, Dublin's Leprechaun Museum has upheld Ireland's rich storytelling tradition. During an immersive tour, visitors delve into the history of Irish mythology and legends, leaving with captivating tales to share.
Phoenix Park
As Europe's largest enclosed city park, Phoenix Park offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life, despite being just a short distance from the city center. The park is home to a diverse array of local flora and fauna, including a herd of fallow deer. Additionally, it hosts key Dublin attractions such as Dublin Zoo, Farmleigh Estate, the President's House, and the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre.
The Capitals Hidden Gems
Marsh's Library
Adjacent to St. Patrick's Cathedral, Marsh's Library, Ireland's first public library since 1707, remains virtually unchanged. Its dark oak interior and a vast collection of books spanning centuries make it a haven for book enthusiasts.
St. Michan's Church
Founded in 1095, St. Michan's is Dublin's oldest church on the northside. What makes it truly extraordinary lies beneath its floorboards – the mummified remains of influential families from the 17th to the 19th centuries, including the mother of Bram Stoker, the Irish author of Dracula.
The Relics of St. Valentine
Whitefriar Street Church may appear modest from the outside, but inside, it hosts a variety of religious shrines, including one containing the remains of St. Valentine. Standing in the presence of the patron saint of love is a romantic experience in itself.
Teeling Whiskey Distillery
Located south of the city in Newmarket Square, the Teeling Whiskey Distillery tour provides an immersive experience into the sights and sounds of a fully operational distillery, culminating in a tasting session.
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