Dublin, Capital of Ireland

Air Link Express bus connects the airport to the city in a few places. Ticket cost 7 Euros for single and 12 for Return. There is a small discount when you buy online. The bus depart every 15 – 20 mins. Taxi to the city centre cost about 20 to 30 Euros, it can be cheaper than bus if you are travelling in group.

Attractions:

Old Library at Trinity College & The Book of Kells

The iconic Trinity College is founded in 1592. Its campus are buildings of beautiful Georgian buildings. Some of the most famous places are the Old Library and The Long Room. The 65 meter long main chamber is an iconic sight, built between 1712 and 1732 it houses more than 200,000 books. The Old Library is open daily from 8.30am to 5pm and from 9.30am on Sun. Located in the library is also The Book of Kells, completed in 800 AD, the Book of Kells is the world’s most famous and oldest book. Tickets cost 14 for Adults and 11 for concessions. You can also get the guided tour for the campus which is at the same price and allow you entrance to the Old Library and Book of Kells as well.

Phoenix Park

An extremely huge park at the west side of the city centre, this is also where the Dublin Zoo is located at. It is definitely one of the largest in the world, at more than twice the size of Central Park. The park is also home to a large herd of fallow deer.

Ha’penny Bridge

Connecting both side of Dublin over the River Liffey. This landmark 1800s pedestrian bridge is located near the Temple Bar area. The cast iron span is also a city symbol.

Chester Beatty Library

This library is located right next to the castle. It is known as one of the city best museum. It is built in 1950 to house the collection of mining magnate, Sir Alfred Chester Beatty. Entrance is free and the place is open from 10am to 5pm on weekdays and later opening timing of 11am and 1pm on Sat and Sun respectively.

General Post Office

Just around the corner from the two main shopping centre in the city centre, the 1814 building is the main post office of the Dublin. Check out the exhibition on offer and admirer the exterior façade. The place is open from 10am to 5pm daily and closed on Sun.

Merrion Square & St Stephen Green

This two patch of greens are also two amazing parks in the city of Dublin. Both are just a stone throw away from one another. They are certainly worthy of a visit. Perfect in Dublin weather.

Dublin Castle

This historic site dated from 1204 is the icon of the city. Visit the castle to admire the gardens, state rooms and library. It is open daily from 9.45am to 5.45pm. It is also use as a venue for state function. A guided tour cost 10 Euros for adults and 8 for concession. Tickets can be bought online.

St Patrick’s Cathedral

The church of Ireland national cathedral, located south of the city. With its 43 meter spire, it is the tallest church in Ireland and the largest as well. The gothic exterior is definitely worthy of a look. It is usually open from 9.30am till 5pm. A ticket is required to enter though.

Guinness Storehouse

Needless to say more, being in Dublin, the birthplace of Guinness, it is a must to visit the stout museum and have a pint. The storehouse bar at the top is also of the best place that offers unobstructed view of the city. The Storehouse is open daily from 9.30am to 7pm, extended during summer. The Gravity Bar at the top is the perfect place for a view. Tickets start from 18.50 Euros when purchase online and include a pint.

Temple Bar Square

The famous Temple Bar area in Dublin where you can certainly go bar hopping. Do note that drinks are of course more expensive in this area. Definitely one of the most visit place in Dublin. Do note that the crowd my get a little rowdy late at night, but still safe for visitors.

Howth

A district towards East of the city and into the Dublin Bay. This area boost amazing view of the waters and perfect for some simple hike as well. From Dublin city centre, you can take the Dart, which stop you right outside Howth Market. This place is perfect for a half day trip. The Cliff Walk here is a must do. Some of the must see here include the Castle and St Mary Church.

Shopping:

Grafton Street

A narrow winding road in Dublin that is the beating heart of the city, it is dotted with fashion brands and eateries. Stroll here and enjoy the stroll, accompanied with street performance. It is also a pedestrian street.

Mary/Henry Street

The other shopping place in Dublin. This place is located across the River. Here you can find all the major stalls including Marks and Spencer, H&M. There are over 200 shops that you can find here.

Liberty Market

Liberty Market, Meath Street, Merchants Quay

Located west of the castle, this place is a long running market selling apparels, shoes, housewares and other stuffs. It is only open from Thu to Sat from 9am to 6pm. It offers good bargains.

Temple Bar Food Market

Meeting House Square, Dublin Southside, Dublin, Ireland

Located just around the corner from the famous Temple Bar, this great weekly outdoor market features stand with baked goods, meats, cheese and many other bites. Come here hungry. It is open every Sat from 10am to 4.30pm.

Restaurants:

The Temple Bar

47-48 Temple Bar, Dublin, D02 N725, Ireland

Located along a street of bars and pubs, this is the place for some drinks and music in this great city, Dublin. The exterior is in a bright and shiny red façade that you will recognise from afar. Open daily from 11am to 11pm. Prices may be slightly higher here.

The Long Hall

51 South Great George’s Street, Dublin 2, Ireland

A very traditional bar located near the castle, this place is popular with the locals. Open from noon daily till late. It is one of the oldest bar in the city with roots since the 1766.

Murphys Ice Cream

27 Wicklow St, Dublin 2, D02 WN51, Ireland

Highly recommended ice cream place in Dublin. It is made the old fashion way by hand. Perfect for a little stop while resting your legs. It is open daily from 12pm to 10.30pm. Try their bakes as well. Prices start from 3.50 Euros.

Queen of Tarts

Cow’s Ln, Temple Bar, Dublin 2, Ireland

This café and patisserie are great for a bite. It is located near the Temple Bar area. It is open daily from 8am to 7pm and 9am on weekends. Come for afternoon tea or breakfast. Their tart is a local favourite. Brunch is serve on weekends.

Chapter One*

18-19 Parnell Square N, Rotunda, Dublin 1, Ireland

Awarded a Michelin star since 2007, this establishment is a must try while in Dublin. It is much often understated. Located in the Writer’s museum, the ambience is amazing. It is open for dinner from Tues to Sat and lunch on Fri only. Their timing changes slightly in season. The lunch menu range from 35 to 42 Euros. There are also pre theatre menu.

Terra Madre

13A Bachelors Walk, North City, Dublin 1, D01 VN82, Ireland

A little Italian establishment that is located along the River Liffey. It is open for lunch from 12.30 to 3pm and dinner from 5 – 10pm. Everything is good and fresh, but the décor is definitely not the best. Down to earth home cooking.

Fish Shop

6 Queen St, Arran Quay, Dublin, Ireland

Super cosy and bricked lined restaurant that specialise in seafood. Located west of the city. It is open from Wed to Sat. They only open for lunch on Fri and Sat. Besides fish and chips, try out the amazing clams. Perfect for lunch which is cheaper. They even have a wine bar a stone throw away.

Leo Burdock Fish and Chips

2 Werburgh Street, Christchurch Pl, Wood Quay

Known as Dublin oldest chipper, there are a couple of location located throughout the city centre, it has been founded since 1913. This place is also frequently visited by celebrities. It is open daily from 12pm to 12am. Come here for a bite. The cod comes at 6.75 Euros.

Elephant and Castle

18-19 Temple Bar, Dublin 2, Ireland

American style diner that serves up homely comfort food such as burgers and wings. It is also a good place for breakfast and brunch. It is open from 8am to 11.30pm on weekdays and from 10.30am on weekends. Prices are fair.