They say you must be riding high on the Luck of the Irish to find yourself in the historic city of Dublin. The capital of one of the most charming island nation in the Norwegian Sea is where you find every other building a true depiction of modern architectures, colorful alleys, booze bars, and a lot of things to explore. The best part about these places to visit in Dublin is that they encompass years, uncountable stories, and magnificent work from different times.
Dublin adorns the east coast of Ireland and the locals here acknowledge your presence with a big welcoming smile. Mountain excursion, city day trip, and coastal attractions are the perfect food for the wanderer in you. If Ireland is on your mind, save dates for Dublin right away and tag these places to visit in Dublin on your checklist. For the kind of place that Ireland is, an extensive city tour would leave you enchanted!
Best places to visit in Dublin exhibiting Ireland’s architectural prowess
1. Irish Museum of Modern Art – Exhibiting the best from different eras
Nothing depicts Ireland’s grandeur as beautifully as the Irish Museum of Modern Art! Also known as world’s leading institution for collection and exhibition of modern arts, the IMMA is a place worth your visit. The grand museum is a former royal hospital.
The most noticeable feature of the museum is the extended corridors running along a series of connected rooms. The museum hosts plenty of programs and exhibitions year round. It also encompasses artist’s studios as well.
Popular attractions of Irish Museum of Modern Art: Maze and formal garden, collection by Lucien Freud
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2. St. Patrick’s Cathedral – The most sought-after attraction in Dublin
One of the most scenic spots to visit also happens to be a highly rated monument in Dublin. The stained colorful glass is the first and the most notable thing at the cathedral that would have your attention. As you prepare to get inside the cathedral you will have to buy a ticket to see the place around.
You can escape the queue by just taking a walk around the periphery and attending the mass that goes on throughout the week. The fact that St. Patrick’s is the tallest and the largest church in Ireland puts it atop the list of must-visit places in Ireland.
Popular attractions of St. Patrick’s Cathedral: Burial site of Jonathan Swift – the literary great and one of the deans of the cathedral in the early 18th century
3. Trinity College – One of the world’s largest libraries
Ireland’s most popular university is also the place from where renowned alumni like Oscar Wilde, Katie Mcgrath, and Jonathan Swift. Trinity College is more popular for its remarkable library, a place where bibliophiles find their ultimate retreat. And someplace where a book lover would want to find themselves at.
Ireland’s largest library also occurs to be the home to Book of Kells – the 1000-year-old illuminated manuscript that has the four Gospels of the New Testament. The main library is restricted for tourists but Old Library is well within the quarters and open to the public.
Popular attractions of Trinity College: The Long Room – resembles the Jedi Archives in Star Wars, Book of Kells
4. Dublin Castle – Once a seat of Irish administration
Once the popular seat of United Kingdom’s administration in Ireland, the Dublin Castle stands as a prominent figure today. The majestic building is certainly the place you would love to visit on a day tour in the glorious city. Quite interestingly the castle had a Black Pool, from where Dublin derives its name as ‘Dubh Linn’. It is now on the site of the present Castle garden.
Popular attractions at Dublin Castle: The State Apartments, Medieval Undercroft and Chapel Royal, and Dubhlinn Tearooms, situated in the State Apartments are open for visitors all days
Note: State Apartments might be closed on special occasions
Timings: 9:45 am to 4:45 pm (Monday to Saturday), 12 pm to 4:45 pm (on Sundays)
5. Ha’penny Bridge – Perfect enchantress in the heart of the city
The beautiful pedestrian bridge over River Liffey in Dublin happens to be a top tourist attraction and a famous place to visit. The bridge was built in 1816, since then it has been grabbing eyeballs of tourists from around the world, especially when it’s the night time and the bridge is lit in the myriad of colors! The bridge also connects Temple Bar with the North of The Liffey. Ha’penny Bridge is a true charmer for the kind of enchanting picture background that it creates.
Popular things to do at Ha’penny Bridge: Carry the love locks and put it at the bridge dedicating it to your beloved, don’t forget to stop by popular Irish Pubs nearby, they play amazing Jazz songs
6. Kilmainham Gaol – Dark and glorious
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One of the most interesting places to visit in Dublin from the historical point of view, the Kilmainham Gaol prison is famed for its state significance when the political prisoners were held here as captives during the times of the uprising, revolution, and civil war.
The multi-storied design of the prison is worth a mention. Dating back to the 1700s, the prison was a remarkable place during Ireland’s independence and has seen a lot of Ireland’s freedom fighters. A tour of the prison could be an incredible experience which will take you back to the eventful past.
Timings: 9:30 am to 6 pm
Suggested Read: Ireland Honeymoon Guide: All You Need To Know For Celebrating Your Special Vacation The Irish Way
Best places to visit in Dublin exhibit the best of nature & surroundings
7. National Botanic Gardens – A day amidst the tulips of Dublin
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The lush green National Botanic Garden located on the banks of Tolka Lake spans 19.5 hectares and is a must-visit attraction in the capital city of Ireland. on the banks of Tolka River. While taking a stroll in the garden area one can spot extensive herbaceous borders along with a multicolored display of flowers. The annual display of decorative plants which also includes the rare Victorian carpet bedding is a popular attraction here.
Popular attractions of National Botanic Gardens: Arboretum, sensory garden, rock garden, and a large pond
Timings: 9 am to 5 pm on weekdays, and 10 am to 6 pm on weekends
8. Phoenix Park – More of wildlife and greenery enclosed in the city center
Located at a walking distance from the city center(3 km), the Phoenix Park is Europe’s largest enclosed park and a wonderful nature retreat that must be visited when you are in Dublin. The urban park located to the north of river Liffey is another notable attraction and one of the popular places to visit in Dublin, as you plan to spend quality time with nature and wildlife. The park also has venturing space for wildlife and people can see them thriving in their natural habitat.
Popular attractions of Phoenix Park: Dublin Zoo, Ashtown Castle, Wellington Monument, President’s House, and Farmleigh House
Dublin Zoo timings: 9:30 am to 6 pm
9. Killiney – Coastal delight in Dublin
For the sake of scenic and tranquilizing nature and outdoors, Killiney is the place worth a visit. The seaside resort area is just perfect for a day trip and one can look forward to spending more time here. Easily reachable by a dart train from the city center, Killiney flourishes in the Dublin Bay, accounting for memorable times on your Dublin vacation. Killiney is a pretty looking coastal town with plenty of attractions and wonderful atmosphere.
Popular attractions of Killiney: Memorable walk from Dalkey to Killiney, Coliemore Harbour, and Killiney Hill Park, Dalkey island – ferry to the island is available year round
Your list of Dublin attractions isn’t complete without exploring these places…
10. The Temple Bar – The most happening place in Dublin
Dublin’s most iconic place is located in the vicinity of Ha’Penny Bridge. The bridge is stationed in the midst of the happening riverside town making for a wonderful place to stroll around at night. The clobbered street, lights, and river flowing by makes for an ideal time to visit the Temple Bar.
Also, there are plenty of bars and multicuisine restaurants serving authentic Irish foods. If you stick around here for a while, you will get to experience plenty of live music in the energetic neighborhood. This place is again a must-visit!
Popular attractions at The Temple Bar: Live entertainment and pint of Guinness
11. The Science Gallery – Some learning experience in the backyard of Trinity College
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Located in the backyard of Trinity College, the Science Gallery could be a quick getaway for people interested in science and technology developments. The fact that entry to the science gallery is free makes it even more exciting. This place could also be a wonderful learning experience for kids.
Timings: 12 pm to 8 pm (weekdays), 12 pm to 6 pm (weekends)
12. Grafton Street – For shopping & spending an eventful day in Dublin
This is where Irish diaspora heads to when they have to go shopping. If you are still confused about what to do with your free day, then Grafton Street is the perfect filler between the lazy moments. From high-end stores to lots of pubs and brewery, this place has got the right vibes to keep you engrossed all day long. Should you wish to explore the remarkable market streets of Dublin’s one of the most happening localities, this is the place to be!
Popular attractions at Grafton Street: Street performers, Disney Store, and Brown Thomas store
Further Read: World’s 20 Best Honeymoon Destinations In September To Revive Your Romance!
A lot said and described, Ireland is an explorer’s delight that swirls amidst those imposing structures from centuries ago. Dublin is a city awaiting you in its true glory.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Dublin
What can I do in Dublin for a day?
For a perfect day in Dublin, make sure to visit the following places:
1. Grafton Street – Shopping streets
2. Little Museum of Dublin – Informative
3. St. Stephen’s Green – Stroll through the park
4. Guinness Storehouse – Tour the most visited attraction
5. Temple Bar – Enjoy Irish Nightlife
Which are the popular places to enjoy the nightlife in Dublin?
The popular nightclubs to enjoy Dublin nightlife are:
1. Fitzwilliam Card Club
2. Cafe En Seine
3. The Long Hall
4. The Grand Social
Is Dublin expensive for tourists?
Dublin is a fairly small city but quite expensive especially its food and alcohol. However, if you are here for a few days, and plan your expenses well, it won’t burn a hole in your pocket.
Why is the Temple Bar so famous?
Temple Bar is one of the famous pubs in Dublin because of its location and also because it offers Ireland’s largest collection of different kind of whiskies.
When is the best time to visit Dublin?
March to May is an ideal time to visit Dublin as the weather is pleasant during this time and the famous attractions are less crowded.
What are the best things to do in Dublin?
Some of the famous things to do in Dublin are:
1. Experience Dublin nightlife at the Temple Bar
2. Visit the Guinness Storehouse
3. Tour of the Old Jameson Distillery
4. Enjoy Picnic in Phoenix Park
Does Dublin have downtown?
A trip to Dublin will be incomplete without experiencing the city’s downtown. It offers everything from historic architecture to entertainment and shopping activities.
Which are the best places to stay in Dublin?
If you are a party animal, the best area to stay is the Temple Bar. For first-timers in Dublin, the City Centre is the best place to stay. If you are travelling on a budget, stay in Trinity neighbourhood.
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A perpetual nature seeker, Amit is on a mission to explore the best of planet Earth. Much famed as the Whistling Hound, Amit’s is currently based out of Wroclaw in Poland, and is experiencing the best of his life in Eastern Europe and Scandinavia.
