Everything You Need to Know About Visiting Dublin

Whether you’re planning a trip to Dublin or just curious to learn more about the capital city of Ireland, read on for everything you need to know about visiting Dublin! From the neighborhoods of Temple Bar, Smithfield and the main landmarks, to popular activities, budget tips and nearby day trips, you’ll be able to learn all your need to plan the best trip to this amazing city.

Dublin Neighborhoods

Dublin is split into 24 postcodes, with areas referring to both the administrative region and a common name for the locality within that region. The city center is home to most of the city’s attractions and activities, and here are three of the more notable neighborhoods you should explore:

1. Temple Bar

This unique inner-city cultural quarter is home to not only lots of shopping, nightlife and cultural activities, but also an impressive array of fine restaurants and pubs. With it’s narrow cobbled streets leading off pedestrianized areas and beautiful architecture, it’s a great starting point for exploration.

2. Smithfield

To the northwest of Dublin’s city center is Smithfield, an area that has seen a wave of new bars, restaurants and markets popping up over the last five years or so. Its location just outside the busy city center is great for getting a feel for the city and it’s in close proximity to landmarks like the Dublin Castle and St. Patrick’s Cathedral.

3. O’Connell Street

This is Dublin’s main thoroughfare, with Edwardian terraced buildings lining both sides of this long street. Here you will find two impressive landmarks, the GPO – a Georgian-style post office building – and the massive O’Connell Statue.

Popular Attractions and Activities

Now let’s take a look at some of Dublin’s more popular attractions, activities and nearby day trips so you can plan your itinerary:

1. National Botanic Gardens

This stunning 18th century Italianate-style garden is home to over 10,000 plants representing over 10,000 species, making it a great attraction whether you’re a nature lover or just wanting to soak in some stunning green spaces. Free entry makes it a great place to spend a couple of hours exploring.

2. Guinness Storehouse

Who can visit Dublin without learning all about the iconic Guinness stout! Explore seven stories dedicated to this brewery, containing exhibits like brewing vats, interactive tips on how to pour it best and other historical artifacts. The Gravity Bar at the top of the attraction offers one of Dublin’s most amazing views – 360-degree scenery of the Emerald Isle below!

3. Dublin Castle

The castle dates back to 1204, when it was originally created as a defensive fortress. Since then it has been used as an administrative centre by English colonialists, and later on as the seat of British rule in Ireland until 1922 when King George V declared it the capital of Independent Ireland. Today it houses two museums as well as other offices and offers guided tours so can explore its rich history.

4. The Phoenix Park

Take a break from sightseeing and relax in this amazing National Park – within its 707 hectares lies the 19th century Victorian People’s Flower Gardens as well as over 900 wild deer roaming around can be seen here – one of Europe’s largest city parks is located in this area. It also houses a zoo as well as two golf courses – so grab your clubs for some fresh air golf!

5. Take a Day Trip

If you want to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city centre for the day, head to Wicklow – Ireland’s Garden County – which is located just south of Dublin. Here you can see stunning green landscapes and picturesque coastal views, or explore the many ancient ruins such as Glendalough – a monastic settlement founded in the 6th century. Also take a trip to Belgium’s port city of Antwerp – just two hours away by car – for a taste of continental Europe.

Budget Travel Tips

Dublin can be an expensive destination, but with careful planning and some savvy budgeting, you can still enjoy all that this wonderful city has to offer without breaking your wallet:

• Accommodation: There are several hostels around town offering comfortable two or three bed rooms for between €15-20 per night.
• Getting Around: Dublin buses are fairly efficient but quite small; the fare is €2.65 and you can get day passes at stops or in shops around town.
• Eating Out: Eating in Dublin can be quite expensive – but with some smart meal planning you can try traditional Guinness beef stew at a pub as well as other local dishes such as mussel chowder.
• Bars & Nightlife: The Temple Bar area can be quite crowded and quite expensive; head outside of this area for lower prices.
• Tips & Tixs: If sightseeing is on your agenda there are discount cards available at stores around town which give significant discounts on cultural packages.
• Book in Advance: Try booking accommodation and tickets for attractions in advance for cheaper prices.
• City Passes: There are several city passes available which give discounts to attractions around town as well as free public transport throughout your stay.

With these tips in mind you should be able to find great deals when visiting Dublin without sacrificing your experience!

Takeaways About Visiting Dublin

Dublin has something for everyone – from rich culture and history to amazing views and natural beauty it really has something for everyone! By finding budget friendly accommodation and exploring local eateries and attractions you can save some money while still getting the full experience. So keep these tips in mind while planning your next trip, it won’t disappoint! For more information on traveling in Dublin check out The official guide to Dublin on Visit Dublin website.