Capital of the Irish Green Island, Dublin is pronounced "Dubh Linn", which means the black pond. The chaotic history of Dubliners has taught them how to enjoy good times, which makes this city full of communicative good humor, a “so irish” joie de vivre! Here is a summary of essential things to know before visiting Dublin, the Irish capital.
Dublin history and culture
Dublin is a city proud of its history, where freedom is paramount. James Joyce would not contradict these comments: he retraced the life of middle-class Dubliners in "The Dubliners", his most famous work. The struggle for Irish independence had reached its climax by then. Dublin is also a young and dynamic city whose influence is ensured by the many links forged by its universities with other European establishments. This rich history makes the city of Oscar Wilde an international cultural capital.
The statue d'Oscar Wilde
The Irish capital
Dublin is divided into 24 districts. It is the only city in Ireland to have a postcode. A Dubliner therefore lives in Dublin 1, Dublin 2, Dublin 3… Dublin 4 is the district where most of the city's politicians live. It is not uncommon to hear of "D4 mentality", that is to say of an elitist and liberal attitude. There is a richer town (the south) and a poorer town (the north), of which the River Liffey forms a natural border.
A young and dynamic city
However, these differences are blurring with the arrival of many foreigners, tourists, workers, Erasmus students.
The latter thus went to the various universities of Dublin, the most famous of which is certainly Trinity College, designed on the model of Oxford and Cambridge. As such, it is a tourist and cultural place, all the more so as it exhibits the Book of Kells, medieval manuscript dating from the year 800. The university also exhibits the stages in the creation of an illuminated book, as well as the oldest harp in the country.
Tinity College
Dublin and culture
Dublin, like most Irish cities, is a city with a very strong cultural component. But Dublin, it's also a live show, with many festivals such as the theater and writers (France actively participates in the latter).
Culture is however concentrated in a high place in Dublin: the Temple Bar, where you can find trendy shops, restaurants and pubs, art galleries, cinemas, and artists' studios… the ideal place to enjoy a good beer too!
Museums and monuments to visit
Dublin is an extremely cultural destination. The capital of Ireland offers an exceptional heritage, and many museums to visit: the James Joyce center, the Book of Kells at Trinity College or even Dublin Castle.
As for museums, Dublin has many museums to visit. The best known are those devoted to the great authors of Dublin and Ireland. the cultural heritage. Dublin is also extremely wealthy. Very early on concerned about the preservation of their culture, Dubliners preserved their monuments, which are now known to all.
Here is a small selection of monuments and museums to visit during your stay.
Trinity College and the Book of Kells
Trinity College holds a priceless treasure: the Book of Kells. The university explains the stages in the creation of an illuminated book. The stage is really worth the detour, if only to see this immense institution that is still Trinity College today.
Tinity College Campus
Irish National Gallery
Housing a collection of over 12 000 œuvres d'art, the National Gallery of Ireland is a magnificent museum. You will have the opportunity to see the largest paintings by European artists.
Saint Patrick's Cathedral
Built in 1191, Saint Patrick's Cathedral shines all over Ireland. It has hosted many artists and concerts throughout its existence, served by extraordinary acoustics. Discover the exceptional history of this cathedral and its foundation.
St Patrick's Cathedral in Dublin
Writers Museum
The Dublin Writers' Museum allows you to get to know the great Dublin authors, four of whom have received Nobel Prizes. Meet Swift and Sheridan, James Joyce or even Samuel Beckett and discover their works and their correspondence.
+ info: Museum of writers
Dublin Castle
Located in the heart of historic Dublin, it takes its name from the Black Pond (Dubh Linn) and has passed it on to the city. You will have the opportunity to see the massive fortifications built under the Vikings. It has long been a royal abode when the British monarchy moved to Ireland. It has since been the setting for the signing of peace between Northern and Southern Ireland.
+ info: Dublin Castle
Dublin Castle
Centre James Joyce
Lovers of literature, the James Joyce center is waiting for you. Discover all the objects in the life of the famous Irish author. From there, you can visit Dublin by going on one of the Irish Capital Sightseeing Tours. You can also discover James Joyce in Merrion Square, quietly lying on his rock.
+ info: James Joyce Center
Parks and gardens for strolling
Dublin is a beautiful city. Endowed with numerous parks and squares, it offers a pleasant living environment and very nice stops to be made between two visits. Here are some ideas:
Phoenix Park in Dublin
- Merrion Square • Discover the surprises of Merrion Square Park and stop by the Oscar Wilde statue: you will see him enjoying the sun, leaning against a stone.
- Famine Memorial • The famine statues were erected in 1997. Created by Rowan Gillepsie, they commemorate the great famine that occurred in the 19th century. Over a million Irish had by then either disappeared or emigrated.
- Phoenix Park • The Phoenix Park is one of the largest urban parks in Europe. It is the meeting place for many Dubliners on Sundays. Go to the visitor center and see an exhibition about the forest and its inhabitants.
- Dublin Zoo • In the heart of Dublin, the Municipal Zoo is a paradise for young and old. Located in Phoenix Park, it is home to many animals such as elephants, lions, chimpanzees… Discover the many attractions on offer in this huge zoological park.
Explore the Dublin area
The Dublin area is also worth a visit. Very endearing, it has a rich rural heritage that you can visit. An experience that will contrast sharply with life in Dublin. Here is a small selection of the must-see places around Dublin.
Moulins of Skerries
Located to the north of the city, the Skerries Windmills allow you to step back in time to the days when all energy came from essential elements of nature like wind and water. The silhouette of the water and windmills stands out against the tormented landscape, battered by winds and sea spray. Located in the Fingal region, they will also allow you to walk in the hinterland and discover magnificent beaches, as well as fishing villages where simplicity is essential.
Skerries Mill
Village de Howth
In the near outskirts of town, Howth is a fishing village with colorful houses. Stroll by the pier side and admire its lighthouse just as colorful, last trace of civilization before the open sea. With any luck, you will see black seals sticking their heads out of the water, then diving back in search of wriggling fish.
Going out in Dublin: pubs and neighborhoods
Like all Irish cities, Dublin has plenty of nightlife pubs.
The Temple Bar district
Temple Bar is the area to visit absolutely, for those who want to enjoy the festive spirit of Dublin. Located in the historic center of the Irish capital, it is full of pubs and restaurants where you can order Guinness or another local beer.
Temple Bar area, perfect for going out
Some Dublin pubs
In lack of inspiration? Here is a small selection of 3 must-see pubs.
- Oliver St John Gogarty • The Oliver St John Gogarty pub is one of Dublin's best known pubs. Therefore, plan to come early enough to find a stool to sit on. You will then enjoy the many Irish music concerts scheduled by the pub managers. If you're not into Irish music, head to the basement where electro sounds will have you dancing until late at night.
- Porterhouse Temple Bar • Awarded in 1998 for being the best bar in the world, the Porterhouse is an institution in Dublin. Many beers are available, brewed on site. Of course, Guinness is flowing freely all evening.
- The Temple Bar • No need to tell you where the Temple Bar is: all Dublin streets lead to this huge traditional pub. For more than 160 years, it has been an unmissable event in Dublin's nightlife. Grab a Guinness, sit down at a rough wooden table, and enjoy the gigs given out every weekend.
Souvenirs, shopping and market
What to bring back from Dublin? Guinness of course! Yes ! but not only !
Guinness and whiskey
If there is one souvenir to bring back from Dublin, it is Guinness. In Dublin, meet at the Guinness Store, a store exclusively dedicated to one of the most famous beers in the world. Bring back canned Guinness (although it is highly recommended to drink it in a pub in Temple Bar) or bring back a dark beer t-shirt.
There is also quantity of whiskeys to bring back from Dublin. The best known is undoubtedly the Jameson. It is aged in various Irish distilleries. There is one near Dublin, where you can buy a bottle to brew Irish Coffee.
Warning, Alcohol abuse is dangerous for health. To consume with moderation.
Guinness, symbol of Dublin
Irish music
Lots of Irish people make music. In Dublin you will have the opportunity to see many bands playing in the streets and being applauded by the crowds. Traditional music is more reserved for theaters. You will find many CDs of Irish music in souvenir shops or record stores.
Clothing
Clothing is often inexpensive in Dublin. Throughout your shopping trip, you will never stop walking past second-hand clothing stores. The amount of the purchase is then donated to a charity. If you want to buy a new item of clothing, prefer woolen clothes, particularly neat to keep warm when winter comes.
Temple Bar Food Market
The Temple Bar market is held every Saturday from 10 a.m. to 16:30 p.m. The opportunity to practice Shakespeare's language with market gardeners, to haggle over the prices of vegetables, and why not buy something to make a stew (Irish stew) or a chowder (Irish fish-based soup)?
+ info: Temple Bar market
Practical info from Dublin
Prepare your stay in Dublin with our practical information page: tourist office, time difference, etc.
Dublin Tourist Office
Discover all the practical information at the Dublin tourist office: main museums, shows to see, etc.
+ info: Dublin tourist office website
Dublin Pass
The Dublin Pass is a useful card for visiting Dublin. The pass is valid for 1, 2, 3 or 6 days. The card gives you free access to Dublin Castle, Saint Patrick's Cathedral, Dublin Writers' Museum, Zoo, Guinness Storehouse Guided Tour, Museum of Modern Art, James Joyce Center, wax museum, etc. The card also allows you to benefit from preferential prices in various shops and restaurants in Dublin.
+ info: Dublin Pass website
When to go
Ireland and Dublin are very rainy in nature. So prefer the summer to have perhaps the chance to see the sun, or the period of February-March-April which presents the least risk of rain. View details of the climate in Dublin.
Transport
Dublin, like all European capitals, has a large international airport, very well served by low cost and national airlines. Find a cheap plane ticket to Dublin.
