Dublin – a captivating capital city
Lively, lovely and filled with wit and charm, Dublin makes headlines for a superb city adventure
From left to right: The Liffey Boardwalk, Molly Malone Statue, Powerscourt Townhouse Centre, Trinity College
Easily one of the most enjoyable capital cities in the world, Dublin has a definite air of urban sophistication, but it has also retained a unique charm that is quintessentially Irish. Its energy and dynamism are evident everywhere – from the pretty cobblestone streets and Georgian Squares to the larger pedestrian thoroughfares hosting glamourous department stores, fine-dining restaurants and some very convivial Dublin pubs.
Dublin's history and heritage
Talking of which, Dublin has a rich literary tradition, with the works of James Joyce, Oscar Wilde, Beckett and Kavanagh haunting many of the city’s best known locals, such as The Palace, The Duke, McDaid’s and Neary’s. Outside pub doors, Dublin city is peppered with attractions charting Ireland’s epic status in literary circles. The Book of Kells, housed in the illustrious Long Room of Trinity College Dublin, is reputed to be one of the most beautifully illuminated manuscripts in the world, dating back to 800AD; the National Library hosts critically acclaimed exhibitions; while the Chester Beatty Library in Dublin Castle, delights visitors with its treasured collection of manuscripts, prints and rare books.
Dublin also boasts a strong art scene at the National Art Gallery and the Hugh Lane Gallery, which both have impressive Irish and international collections. As for museums, you’re spoilt for choice with the Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA), The National Museum of Ireland, Kilmainham Gaol and Farmleigh House. The latter and Dublin Zoo can be found in the vast and verdent Phoenix Park in Dublin – Europe’s largest enclosed urban park.
Eating and drinking in Dublin
When it comes to eating and drinking in Dublin, it’s worth taking a quick stroll to the home of the Black Stuff at the Guinness Storehouse to enjoy your own pint from the Gravity Bar overlooking the city limits. Afterwards, enjoy decadent dining at critically acclaimed restaurants or tone down your budget with quality local food at plenty of splendid cafes around Dublin centre. Of course, Dublin hotels – from the boutique to the exclusive – offer you all the choice you need to suit your budget.
Getting around Dublin
The capital of the Republic of Ireland, Dublin’s idyllic setting on the shores of the Irish Sea will take your breath away: view it from the Dublin Mountains, from your seat on the DART (train) as it curves its way around the sparkling coastline from Howth to Bray, or invigorate the soul with a stroll along one of Dublin’s plentiful suburban beaches. Go on, experience all that Dublin has to offer and just go where Ireland takes you.
