Ireland, often referred to as the “Emerald Isle,” is renowned for its lush and captivating landscapes. The

capital city, Dublin, located on the eastern coast, is the largest city in the Republic of Ireland with a

population of approximately 570,000. Dublin attracts over 11 million visitors annually, drawn by its

inviting atmosphere, lively pubs, rich cultural heritage, and international airport.

Dublin is a sightseer’s delight with reminders of its rich culture on every corner, from centuries-old pubs

to quaint local shops, Cobblestone streets, and the friendliest people you will meet who make you smile.

There is an abundance of activities and sights to explore.

Visit the oldest pub in Dublin dating back to 1198, The Brazen Head, where you can enjoy your favorite

beverage and listen to live Irish music.

Dublin’s public transportation is reliable and easy to navigate (bring coins for the bus) and taxis are

plentiful. You can also see the sights by Hop-On, and Hop-Off Bus Tours, a great way to familiarize

yourself with the city. Dublin provides easy access to other parts of the country, such as Clark, home of

Blarney Castle. More on that to come.

Enjoy a magnificent Irish-friendly stay at The Shelbourne Hotel, across the street from St. Stephen’s

Green. This 5-star hotel has many amenities to offer. Start your morning with breakfast in The Saddle

Room. Indulge in the tradition of afternoon tea in the Lord Mayor’s Lounge and Dax Restaurant for fine

dining, which has received numerous Restaurant Awards.

Spend an afternoon strolling the popular car-free Grafton Street, filled with energy, pubs, restaurants,

and shopping temptations. It will lead you into St. Stephen’s Green. This park was enclosed in 1664-

Dublins lush green Park which was open to the public since 1867, providing a great setting for an

afternoon picnic.

Fine Georgian buildings surround the park, named for the English kings of that era, when things were

stately, symmetrical, and uniform. Venture behind all these fancy facades and visit 29 N. Fitzwilliam

Street for a tour of the 1790 Georgian home, now a museum. They provide an intimate glimpse into the

lifestyle of Georgian life.

Book the Kilmainham Gaol Prison Tour, a must-do. Opened in 1796 as Dublin’s County jail, Kilmainham

Gaol, a prison, now a museum, where many of Ireland’s political prisoners were incarcerated, tortured,

and later executed. Today, Kilmainham Gaol is a museum that tells the story of the suffering of the Irish

people. The British frequently used this as a political prison. Many of those who fought for Irish

independence were held or executed here. Ironically, the last prisoner to be held in the jail, Eamon de

Valera, later became the president of Ireland.

The Temple Bar District, brimming with charming pubs, delightful shops, and inviting restaurants, truly

serves as the heartbeat of Dublin’s vibrant public scene. While it’s one of the most beloved spots for

tourists that locals might shy away from, it’s definitely worth a visit to experience the lively atmosphere

for yourself!

Trinity College, Ireland’s most prestigious institution, was founded by Queen Elizabeth I in 1592 to

promote a Protestant perspective on God. Students conduct the Trinity College tour.

The Book of Kells, an ancient exhibition at the Trinity Old Library, dates back to the 9th century. It

contains a manuscript that documents the four gospels of the life of Jesus Christ and houses over

200,000 original Trinity College books. Here you will find an original edition of the 1916 Proclamation of

the Irish Republic. Each of the seven signatories was arrested and subsequently executed in the nearby

prison, now a national memorial. The library also holds Ireland’s oldest harp from the 15th century,

which is featured on the back of the Irish euro coin. No cameras are allowed, so you will need to visit in

person and allow yourself at least three hours to admire all that is on display.

Visiting the Guinness Storehouse is truly a special experience for many; it’s like a pilgrimage! Founded by

the visionary Arthur Guinness back in 1759, this iconic destination welcomes around 1.5 million visitors

every year. It’s practically Disneyland for beer enthusiasts! Each floor has its own unique theme, making

the exploration so much fun. If you start to feel a bit peckish, the fifth floor has some delicious food

options, and be sure to take a leisurely stroll up to the top-floor Gravity Bar. There, you can enjoy a

breathtaking 360-degree view of the city. To make the most of your visit, don’t forget to purchase your

tickets in advance!

Another must-do is to tour Christ Church Cathedral, a Neo-Gothic cathedral on the site of an 11th

-century

Viking church, located in the heart of Dublin, and ring the church bells in the belfry. You will need tobook a tour for this but well worth the once-in-a-lifetime event. The cathedral is the final resting place of

Strongbow and features the largest medieval crypt in Ireland.

The holy site of legend where Saint Patrick first baptized local pagan Irish coverts. Built in the 13th

century, most of today’s stonework is 19th century. Surrounded by magnificent Victorian stained glass,

tombs of great Irish figures. and regimental flags of the British army. Head up the spiral marble staircase

to view the largest organ in Ireland. Check the schedule on the church website to take in the glorious,

angelical “choir of angels,” who fill the wood-carved choir area with beautiful music.

Stop at Gallagher’s Boxty House restaurant for some delicious, authentic Irish Boxty. Ireland’s delicious

version of a potato pancake. Made with freshly grated potato, mashed potato, flour, and water. Then

cooked to a crispy perfection in a skillet and served with your favorite breakfast sides. Gallagher’s has

been serving a full menu of Irish favorites since 1988. Everything is made from scratch, from their

handcrafted boxty to freshly baked breads, and they even make their own house beer, Jack Smyth.

Avoca Suffolk Street, listed by Vogue UK as one of the “Best 100 Shops Outside London” is a 7-level mini-

department store located in the heart of Dublin. It is filled with beautiful quality Irish gifts to take back

home. They carry unique items across fashion, books, children’s, homeware, food items and so much

more. Enjoy a quick Irish bite on the top floor, complete with a secret outdoor terrace. It is well worth a

visit.