What are the Top 10 Attractions in Dublin?

When travelling to Ireland, Dublin is widely regarded as the best city to visit. As the capital of Ireland, Dublin is a hub of culture, history, the arts and modern life. With the City’s history dating back to Viking times, there is an abundance of historical sites for visitors to explore. With so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming to decide what attractions to prioritise. To make your trip easier, here is a guide of the top 10 attractions in Dublin.

1. Dublin Castle

With a history dating back over 800 years, Dublin Castle is one of the top tourist attractions in the city. Located at the centre of the city, this building was the original fortification of the Viking settlement named “Dyfflin”, and was subsequently developed by British Kings. Over the centuries, this castle has seen various remodels and reconstructions, while still maintaining its iconic Anglo-Norman architecture. Nowadays it’s used for ceremonial and State occasions, such as visits from foreign dignitaries.

2. The Guinness Storehouse

For those beer connoisseurs that can’t resist a frothy Guinness, a visit to the Guinness Storehouse is a must. The Storehouse is located at St James’ Gate brewery, where Guinness has been brewed since 1759. Inside the visitor centre, tourists can learn the history of the company and its brews, as well as savoring a pint! There is also the Gravity Bar upstairs, which has a 360° view of Dublin and where tourists can enjoy a freshly-poured pint of Guinness while they soak in the magnificent views.

3. St Stephen’s Green

Since its creation in 1663, St Stephen’s Green has seen multiple incarnations. Once used as pasture for grazing cattle, it has since undergone renovations and remodels in order to keep up with the times. Nowadays, it’s a public park filled with beauty and awe. Visitors can explore its lush landscape, ponds and pathways, while admiring its monuments such as the Fusillier’s Arch and Lord Ardilaun monument. With over 1 million visitors a year, it’s a must-see attraction in Dublin.

4. The Little Museum of Dublin

The Little Museum of Dublin offers travellers a look inside an important chapter of Dublin’s history – two centuries of turbulent but ultimately triumphant change. This museum offers interactive and entertaining exhibits that cover the period from 1901 right up to modern day; from Irish revolutionists and political figures such as Patrick Pearse and Michael Collins to present-day celebrities like U2, it’s an unmissable destination for any history buff visiting Dublin.

5. The National Gallery of Ireland

Home to over 15000 works of art, the National Gallery of Ireland is a haven for art lovers visiting Dublin. The building itself is stunning, built in 1864 – and its collection will amaze visitors from all backgrounds. Colonial art from French Impressionist works to an extensive collection of Asian art are just some of the galleries one can explore at the National Gallery of Ireland.

6. The Phoenix Park

As one of the largest enclosed public parks in Europe, at some seven square kilometers in size, the Phoenix Park (a Pheasant Phort) is home to many sights and activities to explore. Some may be familiar with this park as the official residence of the President of Ireland – Áras an Uachtaráin sits atop a hill here – but there is much more than what meets the eye here in Phoenix Park. From deer herds and mini-zoos to biking trails and archaeological sites such as Ashtown Castle, there is something here for everyone!

7. The Spire

Standing at over 120 meters tall, it’s hard to ignore The Spire. Designed by Ian Ritchie Architects, this magnificent stainless-steel structure pierces through Dublin’s skyline adjacent to O’Connell Street and serves as an iconic landmark for locals and tourists alike. Every evening The Spire illuminates with coloured lights to mark certain memorial occasions throughout the year – making it an unmissable sight for any first-time visitors to Dublin.

8. Kilmainham Gaol

This former prison was built in 1796 as part of an effort to replace older jails which had become overcrowded due to the influx of prisoners associated with Ireland’s independence movement. This solitary confinement prison had horrific conditions that violate most human rights standards today; thankfully these days you can explore in tours guided by volunteers which tell the story of many brave freedom fighters that were incarcerated here throughout its history. Its a chilling reminder that must be seen when visiting Dublin City!

9. Grafton Street Shopping District

Fashionistas rejoice – Because there is no better place than Grafton Street for people who love to shop “til they drop! Billed as one of Europe’s most exclusive shopping districts, Grafton Street has plenty of offers from established brands such as Bayfind Apartment clothing store and Chesney’s millenary store. Plus there are plenty of street performers providing musical entertainment for passers-by – making Grafton street the perfect place for either day shopping or an evening out on the town!

10. The National Botanic Gardens

Located in Glasnevin, Dublin Northside, this 17-acre site is home to thousands of species of plants from all around the world! This botanical oasis is located on a huge site – well worth exploring due to its amazing selection of flower beds, glasshouses and rock gardens – plus there are many animals that inhabit its grounds including red squirrels, ducks and swans! Admission is free – so if you’re looking for a great way to spend an afternoon learning about nature then come visit the National Botanic Gardens!

At first glance Dublin may appear to be all pubs and tourist traps – but anyone who makes the effort to explore further will discover hidden gems beneath its urban surface! From architectural wonders like Dublin Castle and Kilmainham Jail to tranquil oases like Phoenix Park – these are just a few of top attractions one must visit when trying to get immersed in the unique culture that Ireland has to offer its visitors! For more information on attractions Ireland has to offer check out VisitDublinCastle.ie they provide you with all the information you need when planning your Irish adventure!