Derived from the Irish name Dubhlinn, meaning “black pool,” Dublin is the capital and most populous city of Ireland. Originally founded as a Viking settlement, it is situated near the midpoint of Ireland’s east coast, at the mouth of the River Liffey.
The most popular entry point for international visitors to Ireland, you can get in to Dublin in many ways – by train, bus, boat and car – making it one of the most accessible places to spend your weekend in Europe. It seems that quite a few people arrive by plane and with cheap flights from most places in the UK why wouldn’t you? For example you can fly from Gatwick airport to Dublin for the weekend for as little as $50 return! How can you turn down such an offer! Also did you know that both airports offer parking so there’s no need to use public transport to get there – check out all the options for parking at Gatwick.
There are three places that you cannot miss. Dublin’s rich literary heritage, lively music scene and vibrant pub culture. So if you are in for an Irish weekend, be sure to visits these spots and enjoy:
Grafton Street
Every visit, first-time or no, to Dublin should begin on Grafton Street. This road is not only geographically at the center of Dublin, but is also considered by many locals to be the heart of the city.
A simple stroll along this street will introduce you to the local architecture, provide the opportunity to listen to musicians and street performers, and enjoy Irish food and drinks.
The Guinness Storehouse
Located in the hearth of the famous Guinness Brewery in Dublin, the Storehouse traces the history of Guinness and its creator, Arthur Guinness who established the Guinness Brewery in 1759.
Spanning 7 stories high, a visit in this Dublin attraction will take you through a different aspect of the world famous Guinness Brewery until you reach to the amazing Gravity Bar which provides 360 degree views over Dublin City while drinking your complimentary pint.
Dublin Castle
If you want to delve on something architectural at the same time, historical, Dublin Castle is the place to go for. Built between 1208 and 1220, this complex represents some of the oldest surviving architecture in the city.
Highlights include the 13th-century record tower, the largest visible fragment of the original Norman castle and the State Apartments, once the residence of English viceroys and now the focal point for government ceremonial functions, including the inauguration of Ireland’s presidents.
Temple Bar
Known as the Cultural Quarter of Dublin, you can find in Temple Bar some of city’s best night spots, restaurants and unusual shops lining up in its narrow, cobbled streets. Named after Temple family who lived in the area during the 17th Century, what started as urban decay in 19th Century became an officially designated arts zone in the 1990s.
At night, the area is flooded with nightlife revelers and stag / hen parties while by day the area takes on a more normal facade. Organizations based here include the Irish Film Centre (IFC), the experimental Projects Arts Centre and around a dozen galleries.
There are also centres for music, multi-media and photography as well as a Children’s Cultural Centre-an arts centre offering theatre, workshops and other entertainment for children.
Trinity College
Situated at the bottom of Grafton Street, Trinity College is the oldest and most prestigious college in Ireland and is ranked as the 53rd highest ranking college globally according to the Times Higher Education Supplement Global Ranking.
Established in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth I, one of the biggest tourist attractions to Trinity College Dublin is to the Book of Kells which is housed in the Trinity College Library. The Book of Kells is an illuminated manuscript and is widely recognized as one of Ireland’s most valuable historical artifacts.