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Home » Dublin

Dublin

May 31, 2019 By LetsGoIreland

Dublin 3-Day Itinerary

Dublin 3-Day Itinerary First Image
This post may contain affiliate links. If you click on one of them, we might receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you).

In a nutshell, this is the perfect list if you want skim all the best bits of Dublin. Here you will find our top 8 must-see attractions during a 3-day stay.

We are often asked by friends to recommend things to do and see for short trips to Dublin. This can be tricky as any list of recommendations is of course subjective.

We devised a list based on the idea that the tourist only has about 2-3 days in Dublin, doesn’t know the city and its history all that well and would like to experience the “essence” or the highlights of Dublin.

View of Samuel Beckett Bridge over the River Liffey, Dublin, Ireland
Early risers and very late night party people can experience the beauty of sunrise on the Liffey with the picturesque Samuel Beckett Bridge with only the odd seagull for company. These early morning moments before the city really awakes are some of our favorite times.

If this is the case for you, then check out these 9 unusual sights. This does not mean that these are our favorite sights (which you can find here), attractions or places of interest by any means.

They are also not insider tips. In our opinion, however, these sights are the ones that most characterize Dublin city and all aspects of Dublin life, culture and history.

A realistic tour of all 8 attractions in this itinerary would take about 3 days (don’t forget that big attractions in a city cost time and energy!). This way you have enough time to enjoy the main sights and get a feel for Dublin as a unique European capital city.

Guinness Storehouse

Entrance to Guinness Storehouse, Dublin, Ireland
Just follow the arrow for a pint of the “black stuff” (aka Guinness). There is much more than a pint awaiting you in the Guinness Storehouse. Prepare to be enthralled by the fascinating exhibits and interesting history of one of the world’s most well-known brands.

Guinness is the beer of Ireland and Dublin. You could almost say it’s the national beer of the Irish. What is particularly special is that it is still brewed at St. James’s Gate in Dublin and has been around since 1759 (when Arthur Guinness himself was in charge).

Looking for more information about Dublin? Check out these posts:

  • Dublin’s best kept secrets – Ireland’s capital’s hidden gems
  • Unusual Dublin – These sights are truly special to Dublin
  • The Best Parks in Dublin

Here comes the warning: The tour of the Guinness Storehouse is not exactly cheap. But it is really an experience as you can learn about the brewing, history and worldwide marketing success of Guinness. (For health and safety reasons though, you are not able to actually see the brewing process.)

Guinness tasting time quality control clock, Nils with a rather big pint and a pint of Guinness being poured.
It’s Guinness time! You can even learn the art of pouring the perfect pint as part of the Guinness Storehouse Tour. From left to right: Every day at 10.00 am the tasting experts check the quality and consistency of the Guinness brew, Nils opting for an extra large pint of Guinness, a pint of Guinness mid-pour being allowed to settle for 119.5 seconds before the final top up is poured.

Awaken your senses during the Guinness tasting experience and as a treat at the end, you can enjoy a complimentary pint of Guinness freshly pulled in the Gravity Bar (or a Lager beer if you do not like the dark, malty taste of Guinness).

While enjoying the perfect pint at the top of the building, you can also savor the overwhelming 360° panoramic view of the rooftops of Dublin. This is definitely one of the best views of Dublin that you are likely to see!

A pint of Guinness with a view of Dublin from the Gravity Bar
Enjoy a Guinness with a panoramic view of Dublin from the Gravity Bar.

I have often been asked if this is a “tourist rip-off”. It is hard to give a concise answer. On the one hand the Guinness Storehouse Dublin is a very well-made interactive exhibition spread over seven floors, and you certainly get a lot for your money. On the other hand, Guinness has obviously established itself as the world-famous brand of Ireland and can afford to charge a high price.

Therefore, our conclusion: If you are ever in Dublin and your wallet allows it, you should plan a visit. For us it is a must-do!

Expert tips: The Guinness Storehouse is very popular with tourists and is in fact Ireland’s most popular tourist attraction. When planning a visit, it is best to book the tickets online beforehand.

Firstly, they are at a slightly discounted price, and secondly, you can get in via the “fast lane”. This saves you a lot of time (which on a short break is particularly important!). It is also advisable to book a slot in the morning during the week. You can immediately book your tour here.

Book of Kells and Trinity College Old Library

The entrance to the Book of Kells, Trinity College Dublin, Ireland
When you visit the Book of Kells make sure you have some time to check out the beautiful campus of Trinity College Dublin. It is Ireland’s oldest university and is a charming attraction in its own right with its the cobble-stoned squares and spacious gardens right in Dublin city center.

It is fair to say that the Book of Kells is the most important illustrated manuscript in Ireland. The manuscript was created by Celtic monks in the 8th or 9th century using the most meticulous craftsmanship and illuminates the 4 Gospels of the Evangelists.

The cover page of each of the Gospels, as well as the most famous Chi-Rho page are particularly ornately illustrated. The vibrant, Celtic patterns created on vellum are a testament to the skills of the monks, especially given the conditions under which they were produced.

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Even if you have no relation to ancient book art or the Bible, the Book of Kells is a unique masterpiece of medieval artistry and therefore a very worthwhile sight to see.

I studied at Trinity College Dublin for a while and as a student I was therefore able to visit the Book of Kells at any time for free. I did this about once a month, because a different page is shown every month or so (that’s why some people in Dublin call the Book of Kells the “Page of Kells”).

Regardless of which page you marvel at, the exhibition “Darkness into Light” documenting the exciting history of the book and book art is well worth the visit and gives very interesting insights into Irish life during the Middle Ages.

A great bonus is the visit to the Old Library of Trinity College Dublin, which is included in the ticket price. The so-called Long Room is a library of the early 18th century with very striking architecture. The wooden, barrel vaulted hall lined with bookshelves on both sides impresses both with its height and length. In addition, busts of scholars are exhibited in front of the bookshelves and one can admire the oldest harp in Ireland.

The Long Room Library, Trinity College Dublin, Ireland
The extremely impressive vaulted ceiling of the Long Room has always reminded me of the upturned hull of a boat.

The library is so breathtaking that it must have given even the creator of Star Wars, George Lucas, a lasting impression. It can be said that the Jedi archive in Star Wars Episode II bears has a striking resemblance to the Long Room.

If you want to know more about Star Wars in Ireland, check our post here. Anyway, the walk through this imposing old library is a treat! This double whammy of great attractions are a highlight on every Dublin visit!

By the way, you can book tickets in advance and avoid the really long queues!

Budget tip: Students or alumni of Trinity College have free admission to the Book of Kells for life. Plus, they can bring up to 3 people along with them to see the exhibition for free.

If you are really tight on cash, then perhaps you might try to befriend a nice Trinity student and ask them nicely into bringing you into the exhibition for free in return for a pint! You never know, it might work!

National Gallery of Ireland

Main entrance and the Jack B. Yeats Exhibition at The National Gallery of Ireland
Left: A glimpse inside the Jack B. Yeats Exhibition at the National Gallery of Ireland, which is just one of many galleries for you to wander and enjoy. Right: The main entrance to the National Gallery of Ireland.

The National Gallery of Ireland is home to Ireland’s most impressive art collection and an added bonus is that admission to the permanent exhibition is completely free (donations are appreciated though).

Since the National Gallery is very centrally located (right between Merrion Square West and Trinity College), you can just pop in for a half an hour and enjoy the tranquility of the art gallery (or shelter from the rain or use the facilities…) before you go back to the bustle of the city.

The National Gallery is open every day of the week (Tuesdays through Saturdays from 9.15 am to 5.30 pm (Thursdays even until 8.30 pm!), Sundays and Mondays from 11.00 am to 5.30 pm).

The collection spans three levels, with Level 1 being particularly important for anyone interested in Irish art. Two of my favorite Irish artists are Jack B. Yeats and Harry Clarke, both of whom are well represented here. (Harry Clarke’s amazing stain glass compositions must be seen!)

Looking for more information about visiting Ireland? Check out these posts:

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Lovers of international art will also be impressed with works by Caravaggio, Monet, Picasso, Rembrandt, Turner, Velázquez and Vermeer. Without a doubt, the gallery is a worthwhile stop on any itinerary.

In addition, you can buy nice souvenirs in the gallery shop and treat yourself to a refreshment in the café in the Millennium Wing of the gallery.

Temple Bar

The Temple Bar Pub in Temple Bar, Dublin, Ireland
Don’t be fooled, The Temple Bar is just one of many pubs in Temple Bar.

I admit … Temple Bar is probably a rather unusual attraction on this list. Nevertheless, I think that you should visit this area with its pubs and restaurants. And here’s why: to put it quite simply, the atmosphere!

This part of Dublin, on the south bank of the Liffey, has a reputation for being an overpriced tourist magnet (and that can be partly justified!). Keep in mind that Temple Bar does not reflect the true pub culture of either Dublin or Ireland.

Nevertheless, Temple Bar has a very unique atmosphere, which develops its own charm precisely because of the densely populated pubs and restaurants.

In addition, it has so much more to offer. Up until the 1990s, it was first and foremost the hotspot of artists, musicians and other freelancers. So even today you can still find the remnants of this cultural quarter in the very fine small arts and cultural centers (e.g. the Projects Arts Center or the Gallery of Photography) and the great Irish Film Institute, which often has a variety of lectures, workshops and film screenings in its program.

Our tip: It is worth it to stroll through the narrow lanes to listen to the musicians (‘Buskers’) on the street or to hear live music in the pubs. Why not even pick up some sort of liquid refreshment while you are there?!

It is best to visit during the day or in the evening, but avoid Temple Bar at night or at the weekends … unless you love this kind of drunken nightlife and the increased risk of being puked on gives you an adrenaline rush. You have been warned!

Coffee and a muffin at the Queen of Tarts, Dublin, Ireland
A quick pit stop at the Queen of Tarts for a morning muffin is a must. They also serve very tasty brunches and lunches.

Bonus tip: I’m a big fan of the muffins in the café and patisserie Queen of Tarts at Cow’s Lane. They’re so incredibly juicy! Definitely stop by !!

National Museum of Ireland – Museum of Archeology

Interior of the National Museum of Ireland - Museum of Archeology, Dublin, Ireland
There are lots of very interesting and beautifully crafted artefacts on display at the National Museum of Ireland. Don’t forget to look at the interior of the building too, which is quite impressive!

The Archeology Museum is one of four museums of the National Museum of Ireland and I have really fallen for its treasures. (The entry is free too which compensates your wallet for the expensive entry into the Guinness Storehouse).

Conveniently located in the city center (on Kildare Street, next to the National Library), the museum is the repository for all of Ireland’s archeological objects.

Outstanding examples of artifacts from prehistoric Ireland (ca. 7000 B.C.E.) to the late Medieval period are on display here. Some of the most well-known items include Ogham stones (these are large stones with carved lines which represent early written script in Ireland), the Tara Brooch, and the Ardagh Chalice to name a few.

There is so much to see here, it is definitely possible to wander in here for hours (as I have on many an occasion!).

My favorite exhibition is Kingship and Sacrifice, which sheds light on the Celtic Iron Age. Here one of the main highlights are the well-preserved bog bodies (warning – leathery, parched human remains are not for everyone!).

Artefacts from the National Museum of Ireland - an Ogham stone, a gold collar and a carved 3-faced head
From left to right: An Ogham stone with the carved lines representing Irish script, a finely detailed gold collar from the late Bronze Age and a 3-faced stone head (Corleck Head)

The Viking Exhibition and “Ór – Ireland’s Gold” exhibitions are also very impressive. Here you can get a clear impression of how advanced the metal work skills of the Celts were. Emer is a particular fan of these Celtic treasures, some of which have been accidentally rediscovered in bogs in recent times.

Our recommendation: Plan at least two hours for your visit if possible. There are just so many great artifacts to discover and remarkable insights into the Irish past. By the way, the museum is closed on Mondays.

Kilmainham Gaol – The Historic Prison of Dublin

Interior of Kilmainham Gaol, Dublin, Ireland
The interior of Kilmainham Gaol, Dublin, Ireland

A visit to Kilmainham Gaol (pronounced “jail”) is an impressive journey into Ireland’s recent history where the complex historical threads concerning the Irish War of Independence and the founding of the Republic of Ireland come together. (But don’t worry, even if you are not a big history fan, you can take a lot from a visit.)

Almost all the major freedom fighters and rebel leaders who fought for Irish Independence were imprisoned and some even executed at Kilmainham Gaol.

The list ranges from Robert Emmet and Charles Stewart Parnell to the rebels of the 1916 Easter Uprising, such as: James Connolly and Patrick Pearse. One of the last prisoners to be imprisoned before the jail was closed was Éamon de Valera, who later became the first president of Ireland.

Apart from the fascinating history, the possibility to see the interior of a classic old prison and to imagine how inhumane the lives of the inmates must have been is a unique experience in itself.

In addition, Kilmainham Gaol has been used as the filming location for many famous films such as “The Italian Job”, (1969), “In the Name of the Father”, (1993) or “The Wind that Shakes the Barley” (2006). Even series such as, “Ripper Street” for example was shot here and the U2 music video “A Celebration”.

Our tips: Book your tickets if at all possible 1-2 days in advance, because you can only visit as part of a guided tour and these tours are often fully booked. You can book your tickets here. Alternatively, turn up early on the morning you want to visit and hope that you will be able to get a ticket for that day. The tours generally last about one hour.

EPIC Museum – The Irish Emigration Museum

A glimpse of the EPIC Museum from both inside and outside, Dublin, Ireland
From left to right: Entrance sign to the EPIC Museum, wandering through the digital library and of course James Joyce’s Ulysses in the digital library.

This museum is an absolute must! The EPIC is not only one of the newest highlights that Dublin has to offer, it is probably the best.

It does not matter if you’re Irish or not, the Irish Emigration Museum has a stunning interactive exhibit (it’s the only museum in Ireland whose exhibition relies entirely on digital imagery) that examines the impacts of Irish emigration both at home and abroad.

So, if you’re interested in how emigration has affected Ireland, and how Irish emigrants have influenced the world (e.g., Henry Ford, Riverdance, U2, or James Joyce), you should visit the EPIC Museum.

No matter how old you are, the interactive games where you can learn Irish dancing, choose your favorite Irish villain from history, or experience a “talking” library are just a lot of fun.

No wonder that the museum has already earned a large number of prizes and, through its new didactic museum concept, puts some of the traditional state museums under pressure.

Time saving tip: Since there are a lot of touch screens, interactive games, etc., take a few hours or pick out the highlights that suit you and otherwise move on to the next exhibit, if you don’t you will spend hours here!

The dazzling interior of the EPIC Museum, Dublin, Ireland
The EPIC Museum has a dazzling display of interactive exhibits and offers some unique instagram possibilities too!

After your trip to the EPIC, it is possible to also visit the Irish Family History Centre. Here there is lots of information and experts are also on hand to help you discover more about your ancestors, regardless of whether you already have a lot of information or are just starting your search.

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You can even book a private consultation with a genealogist to help you. Why not check it out? Ireland is a small place; you never know who your cousins might be! (Don’t forget to purchase a combined EPIC and Irish Family Centre ticket!)

Authentic Irish Pubs

How to cross Dublin without passing a pub
This map shows you roughly how it is possible to cross Dublin without passing a Pub. Pretty difficult! Image credit: Fáilte Ireland via Ireland’s Content Pool

Certainly, visiting a few pubs is on almost every Dublin to-do list. In James Joyce’s Ulysses (1922) the main character Leopold Bloom muses that it would be a good challenge to cross Dublin without passing a pub. It’s almost impossible … every second corner has a pub.

But not all pubs are alike, some cater more for the tourist market, while other are focused more on their local clientele. Personally, I would rather avoid the pubs in Temple Bar, unless there is good live music being played.

Those who like something authentically Irish should try to find pubs that are not full of tourists (which can be difficult at times!). Here are 4 recommendations for pubs that I have come to appreciate and that are not on every tourist radar:

  • The Bernard Shaw: A quirky pub for students and lovers of alternative culture and music near the Grand Canal. The double-decker bus in the garden offers not only seating, but also good pizza!
The Bernard Shaw Pub, Dublin, Ireland
The Bernard Shaw pub is a trendy spot with a great vibe located very close to the Dublin Canal. It is quite close to the actual birthplace of its namesake George Bernard Shaw, the famous Irish playwright and winner of both an Academy Award and Nobel Prize for Literature.
  • John Kavanagh (“The Gravedigger”) next to the Glasnevin Cemetery: This is one of the oldest family owned pubs (6th generation) and it is said that there was a special gate to the cemetery just to serve the gravediggers.
John Kavanagh's Pub, Dublin, Ireland
If you visit Glasnevin Cemetery or the National Botanical Gardens, then a trip to John Kavanagh’s pub should be next on your itinerary. This is a pub with charm and history.
  • The Ginger Man: A really cozy Irish pub with fair prices, lots of locals and very good burgers. If you like traditional, honest and cheap, you should definitely visit this pub.
The Ginger Man Pub, Dublin, Ireland
You will find good food and plenty of locals in The Ginger Man pub.
  • Kennedy’s: This pub is similar to The Ginger Man with its quaint style without much fanfare. Here you meet scientists from Trinity College or Dubliners, who come together for a beer after work. Kennedy’s is a great spot if you want a friendly, uncomplicated atmosphere.
Kennedy's Pub, Dublin, Ireland
Kennedy’s is the perfect example of a nice corner pub to go for a sneaky pint in.

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Filed Under: Dublin, Itineraries

May 31, 2019 By LetsGoIreland

The 6 Best Parks in Dublin

Dublin Parks Best Tips
This post may contain affiliate links. If you click on one of them, we might receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you).

Dublin is often called ‘The Big Smoke’ or ‘Dear Dirty Dublin’. But is it really just a big, dirty capital city? Definitely not! Dublin is even home to the Phoenix Park, which claims to be the largest enclosed public park in a capital city in Europe. In addition, there are many small green oases scattered throughout the city, which are great recreational areas to get away from the hustle and bustle of sightseeing.

After a busy day of checking out Dublin’s secret sites or some of the main attractions of Ireland’s capital, parks are the ideal sport to chill, relax and reflect on all of the impressions from your day.

View of the Phoenix Park with the Wellington Monument in the background, Dublin, Ireland
The Phoenix Park is so expansive, you can literally run wild in it.

It is worth noting that the parks have clear opening times. The official opening time of public parks is 10am, but closing time varies depending on the time of the year. In December the parks close at 5pm, while in June and July you can enjoy the long summer evenings in the parks until 10pm at night.

Looking for more information about visiting Dublin? Check out these posts:

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  • Dublin’s best kept secrets – Ireland’s capital’s hidden gems
  • Unusual Dublin – These sights are truly special to Dublin

While some of the parks mentioned in this post are very popular and well known, others are real insider tips. This post contains my personal favorites.

Iveagh Gardens

First, my absolute favorite park and a real insider tip is right in the city center. Iveagh Gardens can be described as the little brother of the famous St. Stephens Green, which is only about 100 meters further north. Not only is Iveagh Gardens more beautiful than its nearby neighbor, it has the added advantage of receiving considerably less visitors, probably because it is a little hard to find.

A snapshot of one of the beautiful water fountains and the waterfall in Iveagh Gardens, Dublin, Ireland
Many people can nicely relax by the sound of flowing water. If it isn’t coming from the sky (and that never happens in Ireland…), then visit the beautiful water fountains and the waterfall in Iveagh Gardens.

The garden is completely surrounded by a wall and many buildings are built directly on its border, which slightly obscures the entrances. The most obvious access is via Clonmel Street. There is also an entrance to the rear of the National Concert Hall on Earlsfort Terrace. A slightly more conspicuous gate is on Hatch Street. It might be a bit tricky to get in, but once you have, you will find this haven of tranquility in the middle of the center.

Iveagh Gardens has a large waterfall that flows over a stone structure made up of stones from all 32 counties in Ireland. To the north is the only dedicated archery facility in Ireland, which also houses the remains of an elephant buried there in 1922. There are also really beautiful fountains, a rose garden and a labyrinth to explore. Without a doubt this park is absolutely worth seeing!

St. Stephen’s Green

North of Iveagh Gardens, at the southern end of Grafton Street, is probably the most famous of all Dublin’s parks: St. Stephen’s Green (aka Stephen’s Green). I would recommend everyone to stroll through this park at least once to get a feel for it, though I personally find it too overcrowded to relax and chill in (especially when the weather is good (or just dry!) around lunchtime).  

Reflections of the trees on the water in St. Stephens's Green in Dublin, Ireland
On a sunny day, St. Stephen’s Green is one of the best spots in town.

The high number of visitors doesn’t only refer to those who walk on two legs….. There are also large number of feathered friends such as seagulls, pigeons, ducks and other birds, which can be quite noisy and messy. Despite this criticism, the park is still worth a visit.

Stephen’s Green is intimately linked to Irish history due to its central location in Dublin city. In the 18th century, it was the site of numerous executions, and in the 19th century, the Guinness family financed the redesign and opening of the park to the public.

During the Easter Rising of 1916, the rebels occupied the park and defended it (without success) against the British army. Today you can see many statues and busts of famous personalities (for example, James Joyce or W. B. Yeats), a triumphal arch from 1907, a plant garden for the visually impaired with descriptions of the aromatic plants in Braille and much more.

The Famine Memorial, the bust of James Joyce and a statue of W. B. Yeats in St. Stephen's Green, Dublin, Ireland
From left to right:
The Famine Memorial commemorates one of Ireland’s bleakest historical times (1850s),
a bust, according to Nils, of the greatest Irish writer ever, James Joyce (photo: CC BY-SA 4.0_Osama_S_M_Amin), and a statue of W. B. Yeats by Henry Moore (what? you can’t see Yeats in that statue that in all honesty looks a bit more like a rain cape than a man…)

It is interesting to note that in the 1950s, the Norns Fountain was a gift from the Cabinet of Germany to Ireland in memory of Operation Shamrock. After the Second World War, the Irish Red Cross enabled more than 1000 orphans from Germany, Austria and France to stay for up to three years with Irish host families. Some of them still live in Ireland today.

Blessington Street Basin

This is without doubt an insider tip! This park can probably be described as the most beautiful, but least known park of all and can be found north of O’Connell Street. The Blessington Street Basin was once a water reservoir and has also supplied the city’s great stills with water for whiskey production.

The picturesque Blessington Street Basin in Dublin, Ireland
The Blessington Street Basin in Dublin is the perfect spot to soak up some tranquility during a busy city break.
(Photo: CC BY-SA 2.0 William Murphy)

Today the park offers itself as the perfect oasis in the middle of the city. It almost feels like you are stepping into another world when you walk through the gates. Maybe it’s because water is the predominant element in the park. It doesn’t matter where you are in Blessington Street Basin, you look out over the large pond and the small green island on it.  On a beautiful day when the sky is reflected on the water, I think that there is nowhere better to relax in Dublin than this spot.

Merrion Square Park

Surrounded by pompous Georgian-style Merrion Square, Merrion Square Park is one of Dublin’s best-kept parks, and is much quieter compared to Stephen’s Green. Oscar Wilde fans will definitely get their money’s worth here.

Statue of Oscar Wilde with his nude wife, a bed of tulips and a Georgian Door in Merrion Square Park, Dublin, Ireland
From left to right:
Oscar Wilde lasciviously hanging out on a rock while a nude representation of his pregnant wife looks at him,
a beautiful bed of flowers in spring (Photo: CC BY-SA 2.0 Ron Cogswell),
and one of the famed grand Georgian doors of Merrion Square

Wilde lived the first 20 years of his life in No. 1 Merrion Square (by the way, he was born around the corner, in 21 Westland Row). Opposite the house in the park itself you will come face to face with an extravagant Oscar Wilde statue.

The park is also home to other strange art objects, sculptures and a collection of historic street lamps. Another peculiarity lies under a small hill in the southeast of the park: a World War II air raid shelter. In any case, Merrion Square Park is a nice place to go for a stroll.

While in the neighborhood, also check out Merrion Square itself as many famous people have lived here: W. B. Yeats for example in No. 82 and Daniel O’Connell (“The Liberator”) in No. 58. Even the British Embassy was based there until 1972 until it was burned down as a result of the Bloody Sunday riots.

The bust of freedom fighter Michael Collins, the Joker's Chair honoring the late Dermot Morgan and a statue of Éire (personified Ireland)  in Merrion Square Park, Dublin, Ireland
There are oodles of all kinds of statues, sculptures et al. to be discovered in Merrion Square Park. Here you see a bust of the freedom fighter Michael Collins, the Joker’s Chair in honor of the great Irish comedian Dermot Morgan aka Father Ted and a more traditional representation of Éire (personified Ireland).

One more thing: The park has only been called Merrion Square Park since 2010. Previously, it was officially named Archbishop Ryan Park, named after the Archbishop of Dublin, Dermot Ryan. The land belonged to the archdiocese (a cathedral was once to be built here) until Archbishop Ryan donated the park to the city of Dublin in 1974. Incidentally, you could only go to the park before if you had a key.

Phoenix Park

A wild fallow deer with a cyclist and the Wellington Monument in the Phoenix Park, Dublin, Ireland
Phoenix Park is great for all kinds of outdoor activities, be it cycling, watching wild deer or climbing the Wellington Monument (good luck with the last one).

The largest park in Dublin aka “Dublin’s Green Lung” is in the north of the city. Incidentally, in case you were wondering, the name derives not from the mythological phoenix from the ashes, but from the Irish word fionn uisce, which means “clear water”. This is the place to go if you fancy wandering and exploring. It is so big and rambly that you can tend to get lost (it has happened to us a few times …).

If you fancy being active, then the Phoenix Park is ideal as there are great possibilities for jogging, cycling (at the entrance you can rent bicycles), inline skating (the asphalt here is in mostly in good condition) and orienteering.

The park is also a great place to watch wild fallow deer. They can be found almost everywhere in the park, but in our experience, we have seen more animals in the north. There are also designated picnic areas and barbeque spots throughout the park and a colorful playground for children.

Furthermore, the Phoenix Park also includes the headquarters of the Gardaí (police), a huge papal cross that marks the place where Pope John II held a mass in 1979, a magazine Fort which is more than 300 years old (and quite rundown), the imposing Farmleigh House, which until 1999 was owned by the Guinness family (sometimes tours of the house are available), the residence of the United States Ambassador to Ireland, and the official residence of the Irish President (Áras an Uachtaráin). On Saturdays, free guided tours of the president’s residence are offered to the public.

The residence of the US Ambassador to Ireland in the Phoenix Park, Dublin, Ireland
The US Ambassador to Ireland lives in a mini White House in the grounds of the Phoenix Park.

One more thing for the bucket list: The obelisk in the Phoenix Park is called the Wellington Monument (62m high) and is the biggest obelisk in Europe. It is named after Dublin born Arthur Wellesley, the 1st Duke of Wellington, who beat Napoleon at Waterloo.

A tip for those of you who have a weak bladder: The only toilets in the park are next to the Visitor Center at ‘The Phoenix Café’ (north of the park) and the ‘Victorian Tea Kiosk’ (east near the zoo). If the fallow deer are not enough for you, you can also go to the great Dublin Zoo and see many more animals. It is definitely worth it!

National Botanic Gardens

View of the Great Palm House and spring blossoms in the National Botanic Gardens, Dublin, Ireland
Particularly in spring, a visit to the Botanic Gardens should be on everyone’s bucket list!
(right photo: CC BY-SA 2.0 William Murphy)

To really get away from the stress of a city trip, it’s worth taking a trip to the green oasis of the National Botanic Gardens. Admission is free and very easy to reach from the city center in just 15 minutes by bus no. 9 and no. 83. Here you can marvel at over 15,000 different plant species from all over the world. But regardless of whether you are interested in plants or not, the Botanic Gardens offer a lovely landscaped environment to stroll around.

Our highlights are definitely the Victorian Glass Houses, especially the Great Palm House, which is home to Ireland’s only tropical rainforest. There is also a magnificent rose garden, which is a treat for the senses in the summer, a rock garden, an arboretum and much more to admire.


Looking for more information about visiting Dublin? Check out these posts:

  • Dublin 3-day itinerary – Discover Dublin’s highlights
  • Dublin’s best kept secrets – Ireland’s capital’s hidden gems
  • Unusual Dublin – These sights are truly special to Dublin

If you feel like it, you can also join one of the two guided tours offered daily to learn more about the over 200-year-old garden. The tours are free on Sundays or cost about €5 on other days. Ideally you should plan about 2-3 hours for a visit.

On sunny days, the Botanic Gardens are a great place for a picnic. The Garden Tea Room also offers food and refreshments and can be a good spot to heat up or cool down or dry off (!) depending on the season.

Furthermore, it is worth taking a look at the website of the Botanic Gardens, as exhibitions, scientific lectures and workshops are often offered for both kids and adults alike.

Bonus tip: If you feel like it, you can combine your visit with a walk through Ireland’s largest and most famous cemetery, Glasnevin, which is just around the corner. There are some of the most important historical figures in Irish history interned here and you can admire the Celtic designs featuring on many tombstones.

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Filed Under: Dublin

May 31, 2019 By LetsGoIreland

Hidden Dublin – Our 7 Favorite Secret Spots

Hidden Dublin Image depicting the Arshbishop Marsh's Library in Dublin
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Most tourists visit the main attraction in Dublin. Guinness Storehouse? Check. Temple Bar? Been there done that. Book of Kells? Bought the T-Shirt. But there is so much more in Dublin than those main attractions of Dublin tourism. There are so many worthwhile hidden gems that can really be the icing on the cake of anybody who really wants to enhance a trip to Dublin.

Our hidden gems do not include any of Dublin’s mainstays (if you want to find out more about them, check our post here). We have included these sights, because we really love them and in our experience they generally are not filled to the brim with tourists.

Looking for more information about visiting Dublin? Check out these posts:

  • Dublin 3-day itinerary – Discover Dublin’s highlights
  • Unusual Dublin – These sights are truly special to Dublin
  • The Best Parks in Dublin

Chester Beatty Library

The main entrance to the Chester Beatty Library in Dublin, Ireland
The main entrance to the Chester Beatty Library in Dublin.
(Photo: CC BY-SA 4.0 Ken Eckert)

If I had to choose three favorite locations in Dublin City Centre, the Chester Beatty Library would be one of them. The Chester Beatty Library is located directly behind Dublin Castle and although it is called a “library”, do not be misled by the name, it is in fact a museum.

Sir Alfred Chester Beatty was a mining magnate, who by the 1940s had already gathered an impressive collection of manuscripts dating from antiquity to the middle ages, as well as rare books, lithographs, and other works of art from all over the world.

The collections of Islamic and East Asian art are particularly impressive in my opinion, but so too are the collections of papyrus dating back to Ancient Egypt. The comprehensive exhibitions on show here are changed on a regular basis and I must say that all of the exhibitions that I have seen so far have been excellent.

It was here that I first discovered my interest in Persian and Indian miniature drawings (the detailed drawings are so minuscule that you have to use the magnifying glasses offered in the exhibition to properly enjoy them!).

In addition to great art exhibitions, this museum, which was honored as the European Museum of the Year in 2002, is also an inspirational place to learn about the five world religions. This permanent exhibition has been cleverly created to allow visitors to delve into fascinating subject material, without feeling overwhelmed. The five world religions are explained side by side according to their basic characteristics without any preference between one religion or another.

One of the best parts of this fabulous cultural attraction is that admission is free although, if you can support it by giving a small donation, that would be appreciated.

Bonus Tip: The Silk Road Café and the Silk Road Kitchen offer a fantastic selection of food and drinks (perfect for afternoon tea!).

In good weather the roof garden is open to the public and from here have a wonderful view of Dublin Castle. The lovely selection of planted flowers give an almost Japanese-like touch to the ambiance making this the ideal spot to recharge before embarking on your next sightseeing adventure. Definitely stop by!

St. Michan’s Church – A Crypt Tour with Mummies

The tower of St. Michan's Church, Dublin, Ireland and a glimpse of the mummies, including the "Crusader" in the crypt.
From left to right: St. Michan’s Church tower and a glimpse of the mummies, including the “Crusader” in the crypt.

This tour is not for the faint hearted or those of you with sensitive souls, but it is absolutely one of a kind and should not be missed! I’ve been on this tour three times and I’ve been thrilled by it every time.

St. Michan’s Church itself is not the highpoint of the tour, the underground crypt is. However, it is worth noting that St. Michan’s is one of the oldest churches in Dublin (the original church was built in 1065, but the present church dates back to the 17th century). The organ was also where Georg Friedrich Handel allegedly performed his Messiah oratorio before the first official performance in Dublin.

It takes a very enthusiastic, quirky tour guide (I always had the same great guy) to make a tour of a burial vault come to life and that is the case here! The tales and scary stories, delivered with perfect timing by the tour guide, leave the audience in rapture.

Those of you who are not easily disturbed can descend into the vaults as part of the tour to see the mummified remains of several nobles from the 17th to 19th centuries. (This may seem like an odd attraction to do on your holiday, but that is something you should judge for yourself!) Among the mummies is even a “Crusader” (in the photo at the back of the wall), but according to the latest findings the remains are only about 650 years old and thus cannot be a crusader.

Until 2017 you could touch the middle finger of the ‘Crusader’ to bring a year of luck in your life. Although this is no longer allowed for conservation reasons, it is a truly peculiar and memorable tour that will not be forgotten so quickly! Supposedly, Bram Stoker even got his inspiration for Dracula here. If you want to do five things in Dublin, St. Michan’s Church Tour should be one of them.

Update: At the end of February 2019, there was a burglary in the crypt and the skull of the Crusader and another skull were stolen. Luckily, both skulls have since been recovered. Guided tours are still ongoing, but unfortunately visitors are not allowed to see the “mummies” at present. They hope to have this open to the public again soon.

Freemason’s Hall

The shiny brass letterbox and door knob of the Grand Lodge of Freemasons, Dublin, Ireland
There is little chance of post being delivered to the wrong address with this letterbox!

Most people are aware of the stereotypes about the Masons, especially since Dan Brown’s Illuminati. In this tour of the Grand Lodge of Ireland on Molesworth Street you can finally see behind the guarded walls of this mysterious society.

I was very surprised how openly our guide talked about alleged secrets and stereotypes of this fraternal club, such as covert handshakes and other rituals. During the tour I also saw the many very elaborate rooms in the Freemason’s Hall. Some make you feel that you have almost travelled back in time.

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There is a room full of Egyptian symbols and objects (just like in a Dan Brown Thriller), a gothic-style chapel with glass paintings that were a gift from Queen Victoria, and the Grand Lodge Room, which reminded me a little of Alice in Wonderland because of its chequered floor.

I also found it very strange how many of the stereotypical ideas were confirmed – be it in the symbolism in the rooms or in statements of our guide that ‘Masons are like boy scouts for big boys’. It goes without saying that this bizarre journey through time into a world full of peculiarities is one that you should definitely when you are in Dublin.

Dublin Parks and Recreation

View of the pond in St. Stephen's Green, Dublin, Ireland on a sunny day
St. Stephen’s Green on a gloriously sunny day. Yes, it is possible to see a blue sky every now and then in Ireland!

It always surprises me how much energy you need during a city holiday. After a few days of city touring, I am usually quite exhausted and in need of another holiday!

Dublin is no different to any other city in this regard. The great thing about Dublin though, is number of lovely parks, which are spread all over the city and are ideal to rest and recharge your batteries.

Some of the parks are very popular and well-known (e.g. Phoenix Park and St. Stephen’s Green), however, others such as the Iveagh Gardens are worth a visit in their own right. (It is surprising how few people take the time to visit these charming parks.) If the weather is sunny (or rather ‘not rainy’) they are certainly worth a stroll around.

Please note! Parks in Ireland are always closed at night. They usually open at around 10am and close before sunset depending on the month.

Do you want to visit our top 6 favorite parks in Dublin? You can read more about them here.

Archbishop Marsh’s Library

The exterior and interior of Marsh's Library, Dublin, Ireland
The exterior of Marsh’s Library may fail to catch your attention as a tourist spot, but it is definitely worth a look inside!
(right image: CC BY-SA 2.0 N Chadwick)

A real insider tip that you will find tucked away behind St. Patrick’s Cathedral is this library of the early Enlightenment era. Marsh’s Library has a collection of approximately 25,000 books from the 16th century. Most of them can be view during a tour.

While the library itself is not nearly as big as the Trinity College Long Room Library, it is still very worthy of a visit. James Joyce, Bram Stoker, Jonathan Swift, and many other writers and scholars researched their works here and even scribbled some books! These can now be admired as part of a permanent exhibition. Also new beautiful exhibitions of the library’s book inventory are constantly being shown.


Looking for more information about visiting Dublin? Check out these posts:

  • Dublin 3-day itinerary – Discover Dublin’s highlights
  • Unusual Dublin – These sights are truly special to Dublin
  • The Best Parks in Dublin

The building itself is also quite special. Unlike many other buildings from this period, the interior has remained almost entirely unchanged since it was built in the early 18th century (from 1707!). This also includes the oak bookcases, which are reminiscent of a bygone era. Take some time to step back in time and explore this little gem.

Bonus Tip: To get a good impression of the collection, the Facebook page of the Marsh’s Library is worth checking out.

Irish Film Institute

The entrance of the Irish Film Institute with illuminated path in Dublin, Ireland
It is not quite the yellow brick road….. but if follow the illuminated path in the Irish Film Institute you be sure to find something that will satisfy film buffs or even just those in search of a cosy cafe.

There is definitely more to Temple Bar than just pubs, but you need to look in the right place! The Temple Bar District is also home to the Irish Film Institute or the IFI, as the Irish call it.

Not only is the IFI a normal cinema, it also supports the film culture of Ireland as a national institution. It also houses the Irish Film Archive, has a library and overall a great program with many activities, such as various festivals, talks, exhibitions and more for all the family throughout the year.

If you just want to see a good (Irish) movie one evening, or are generally interested in film history (the bookshop has a great selection of books and DVDs), or you just want to sit in the cozy café, you should definitely schedule a visit to the Irish Film Institute.

Rent Dublin Bikes

A Dublin bike docking station and cycling along the canal in Dublin, Ireland
If you enjoy cycling, then renting a Dublin bike might be a great option for you to quickly and cheaply get around the city.

Ok so this is not a sight as such, but it is a unique part of the Dublin city experience and we think it is a good insider tip. Why not explore the city by bike instead of by bus, tram or taxi? In recent years, Dublin has become very cyclist-friendly, and a lot of money has gone into cycling infrastructure and a public bike rental program.

My favorite area for cycling in Dublin is along the Grand Canal in the south of downtown. Just try it out and relax on the bench next to the statue of the famous poet Patrick Kavanagh and watch the houseboats.

When I lived in Dublin, I bought the annual subscription for Dublin Bikes a couple of times, but as a tourist you can buy a 3-day ticket. All you have to do is pay € 5 at one of the many Bike Stations with a credit card (a deposit of € 150 will be deposited) and then you will have access to use the bikes. The first half hour is always free, then a small fee will apply.

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From my own experience I can say that half an hour from A to B is usually sufficient for most journeys. The great thing is that there are over a hundred bike docking stations throughout the city to return the bicycles allowing you can easily drop off the bike to the nearest bike docking station once you are finished with it.

By the way: There is now also the ‘AllBikesNow’ app with which you can locate bike stations and also see where and how many bicycles are available.
You can learn more here.

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May 31, 2019 By LetsGoIreland

Unusual Dublin: Our Top 9 Must-See Spots

View of the Spire in Dublin, Ireland on a sunny day
Get a different perspective of Dublin by visiting these unusual spots!

Tourists in Dublin are unlikely to get bored wide range of well-known attractions such as the Guinness Storehouse, the Book of Kells, the Ha’penny Bridge and the National Leprechaun Museum.

Yet, there are many charming, weird, offbeat, and sometimes simply downright strange places in Dublin that are entirely worth visiting (or doing), but usually are not on most tourist itineraries.

[Read more…] about Unusual Dublin: Our Top 9 Must-See Spots

Filed Under: Dublin

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There is a lot more to Ireland than leprechauns, sheep and Guinness! Let's Go Ireland is your cultural gateway to Ireland. We provide travel inspiration, tips, tricks and amazing itineraries to ensure that you get the best authentic experience of this unique island perched on the western edge of Europe.

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