The Irish capital city was founded in the Middle Ages by Vikings. Today, we can feel its historical tradition in the bohemian and laid-back atmosphere of its streets. Even though Dublin is a smaller city compared to other world capitals, it has lots of captivating places to see. Here are 10 places to see in Dublin that you shouldn’t miss!
What to See in Dublin | Our Top 10
Saint Patrick Cathedral
You’ve certainly heard about Saint Patrick and the festivities honoring him, which take place in many parts of the world in March. The church dedicated to the Irish Patron Saint is the country’s largest and is in Dublin.
The site attracts thousands of tourists who come to see the magic of its Gothic-style architecture and its grand bell tower. The church is in Dublin’s historical center, and the entrance fee for visitors is 8 euros. You can check the visiting hours here.
The Temple Bar
Here is where Irish pubs were born. The Temple Bar is one of Dublin’s most bohemian and joyful neighborhoods. Drinking a pint and listening to live music is part of the everyday life of this picturesque, world-famous district.
The most renowned pub opened its doors in 1840 and shares its name with the district. However, we are not sure if the pub got its name after the neighborhood or vice versa. The truth of the matter is that The Temple Bar is a mandatory stop in your visit to Dublin.
Guinness Storehouse
Another place you must visit in Dublin is the factory and warehouse of the famous Black Irish Beer. For beer lovers, this is a sanctuary not to miss when touring around town. However, this is more than just a visit to a beer factory.
For Irish people, beer is a strong cultural element. Understanding its elaboration process is a way to learn more about the traditions of the country. During the tour, you will learn about the beer production process and some fun facts about the brand. You can also go to the Gravity Bar on the top floor, from where you will enjoy a breathtaking view of the city while sipping a beer.
Dublin Castle
This building has served different roles over time, from Viking military fortress to royal house. Visiting it is a journey through the history of Ireland. Today, the castle serves mainly as a venue for official events, although you may take a 45 minute guided visit.
This place to see in Dublin opens every day from 9:45 to 17:45, the entrance fee is 12 euros, and the guided visits are in English.
O’Connell Street
It is one of Europe’s widest avenues and yet another must-see in Dublin. O’Connell Street is the city’s main street and artery. As you walk down its 500 meters of extension, you will appreciate administration buildings and the historic Central Post Office.
You can also visit the statue of Daniel O’Connell, a nationalist leader whose name was given to the bridge that crosses the Liffey River. The avenue is very crowded and possesses an architectural elegance comparable with the Champs Élysées in Paris.
Trinity College
Ireland’s oldest university is another magical place to see in the center of Dublin. Trinity College was founded in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth the 1st. Its historical value is indisputable and was the Alma Mater of celebrities like Oscar Wilde and Edmund Burke. The university campus lays on a surface of 190 thousand meters square. Its main attraction is its fabulous library, which fosters a collection of almost 3 million books.
The enclosure itself is a visual and architectural spectacle. The Library at Trinity College also fosters some relics, such as Ireland’s oldest harp, which is also portrayed in Dublin’s flag, and the Book of Kells, a compilation of the four gospels written in beautiful and colorful calligraphy. The entrance fee to the library costs between 11 and 14 euros.
St Stephen’s Green
St. Stephen Park is the ideal place to breathe some fresh air and take a break from the city tour. It is located at the beginning of Grafton Street, very close to other points of interest.
In St. Stephen Green, you will enjoy the view of the pond full of swans and other bird species, which garnish the Victorian style of the park. It is the perfect place to enjoy picnics and open-air plays.
Old Jameson Distillery
Beer lovers have Guinness, and there is the old Jameson Distillery for Whisky lovers. The distillery worked as a factory for over 200 years. Today, it is a museum where you can closely watch the production process of another worldwide export drink.
Most importantly, you will have the chance to taste its different varieties. The only disadvantage compared with other tourist attractions is the 22 euros entrance fee, but if whisky is your thing, the investment is surely worth it.
Kilmainham Gaol
Among the buildings with historical significance to see in Dublin, the old Kilmainham Gaol stands out. If you are wondering why a jail would ever become a tourist attraction, the answer resides in the relevant role it played in the independence of Ireland from the United Kingdom. Numerous revolutionary leaders were incarcerated and executed within its premises.
The place also served as a location for the film In the Name of the Father (1993), directed by Jim Sheridan. The old Kilmainham Gaol is a place Irish people highly regard because of its importance in different chapters of the country’s history. The site offers guided visits, and the entrance fee cost is 8 euros.
Molly Malone Statue
In Grafton Street, across from Trinity College, there is one of the most emblematic symbols of Dublin’s popular culture. This statue was built as a tribute to a song that would become the city’s non-official anthem. It tells the story of a fish vendor who pushed a cart while selling her products and died at a young age.
Today, the site is a favorite meeting point for Trinity students, tourists, and pretty much anyone in town. Don’t miss the opportunity to have your picture taken with Molly Malone!
Moreover, you can access many of these places without making a line with the Dublin Pass, a card redeemable for entries and walking or bus tours. March is a month full of celebrations related to Saint Patrick’s festivities. Everything turns green, and happiness prevails in the streets.
As you have seen, Dublin is a city full of mystery, fun, history, architectural beauty, and kind people. What else can you ask for? Getting to know more about Irish culture and traditions is a more than rewarding feeling.
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