NUMBER NINE — Area Guide
Discover Dublin
Ireland's vibrant capital — a city of literary legends, Viking roots, world-famous pubs, and Georgian grandeur. From ancient cathedrals to cutting-edge food scenes, Dublin rewards every kind of explorer.
Begin exploringHistory & Heritage
The Historic City
Founded by Vikings over 1,000 years ago, Dublin layers medieval streets, Georgian squares, and revolutionary landmarks within a remarkably walkable city centre.
Must See
Trinity College & the Book of Kells
Ireland's oldest and most prestigious university, founded by Queen Elizabeth I in 1592, is a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city. The star attraction is the Book of Kells — a breathtaking 9th-century illuminated manuscript — displayed alongside the Long Room, one of the world's most beautiful libraries, with its vaulted ceilings, 200,000 ancient volumes, and marble busts. Don't miss the iconic Brian Boru Harp, the national symbol of Ireland.Castle
Dublin Castle
Built in 1204 as a medieval fortress, Dublin Castle served as the seat of British rule in Ireland for over 700 years. Today, explore the ornate State Apartments, the Gothic Chapel Royal with its stunning carved stonework, the Viking-era undercroft, and the Chester Beatty — one of Ireland's finest museums of manuscripts and rare books.Cathedral
Christ Church Cathedral
Dublin's oldest building, founded by the Norse King Sitric Silkenbeard around 1028. The medieval crypt — the largest in Britain and Ireland — holds centuries of relics, monuments, and even mummified remains. A covered bridge connects to Dublinia, an interactive Viking and medieval exhibition.Cathedral
St. Patrick's Cathedral
Ireland's national cathedral and its largest church, founded in 1191 beside the site where St. Patrick is said to have baptized converts. A masterpiece of Gothic architecture with soaring stained glass, it also holds the tomb of Jonathan Swift, author of Gulliver's Travels, who served as dean for 32 years.History
Kilmainham Gaol
This hauntingly beautiful former prison is where the leaders of the 1916 Easter Rising were executed — a pivotal moment in Irish independence. The guided tour through cells, yards, and the atmospheric East Wing (used in many films) is one of Dublin's most powerful experiences. Book timed tickets early.Landmark
General Post Office (GPO)
The imposing Greek Revival façade on O'Connell Street witnessed the 1916 Rising firsthand — bullet holes are still visible in its columns. Inside, the GPO Witness History exhibition uses immersive multimedia to tell the story of the rebellion and the birth of the Irish state.Museum
14 Henrietta Street
A beautifully restored Georgian townhouse that tells the story of Dublin's social history — from aristocratic residence to overcrowded tenement. Guided tours are intimate, moving, and illuminate a side of Dublin few visitors discover. One of the city's best-kept secrets.Landmark
Ha'penny Bridge
Dublin's most photographed bridge, this elegant cast-iron footbridge has spanned the River Liffey since 1816. Named after the halfpenny toll once charged to cross, it's especially beautiful at night when its lanterns reflect on the water. A perfect spot for an evening stroll.History
Glasnevin Cemetery & Museum
The final resting place of many of Ireland's most significant figures — Daniel O'Connell, Michael Collins, Éamon de Valera, and Countess Markievicz among them. Guided tours bring Irish history to life through the stories of those buried here. Surprisingly moving and fascinating.Arts & Culture
Museums & Culture
Dublin's cultural scene is world-class — and much of it is free. From masterpieces by Caravaggio to the story of Irish whiskey, there's a museum or gallery for every interest.
Ireland's #1 Attraction
Guinness Storehouse
Crowned 'World's Leading Tourist Attraction,' this seven-storey experience at St. James's Gate takes you through the ingredients, history, and artistry of Ireland's most iconic beer. Journey through interactive exhibits, learn to pour the perfect pint at the Guinness Academy, and finish at the Gravity Bar — Dublin's highest point — with panoramic 360° views of the city, a fresh pint in hand.Free Entry
National Gallery of Ireland
Home to over 14,000 artworks spanning 700 years, including masterpieces by Caravaggio, Vermeer, Velázquez, and Jack B. Yeats. The restored 19th-century wings and modern Millennium Wing host world-class rotating exhibitions. All free to visit — one of Dublin's great treasures.Free Entry
National Museum of Ireland
Three free museums across the city: Archaeology on Kildare Street (extraordinary Celtic gold and Viking treasures), Natural History on Merrion Street (the Victorian "Dead Zoo"), and Decorative Arts at Collins Barracks. Each is superb and could fill a morning.Whiskey
Jameson Distillery Bow St.
An award-winning distillery experience in atmospheric Smithfield. The guided tour takes you through the full distillation process with engaging storytelling, culminating in a whiskey tasting where you compare Jameson against Scottish and American rivals. The cocktail masterclass is also brilliant.Heritage
EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum
Housed in the stunning CHQ building in the Docklands, this award-winning museum tells the story of how 10 million Irish people emigrated and influenced the world. Twenty interactive galleries make it one of the most engaging museum experiences in the city.Museum
Chester Beatty
Within the grounds of Dublin Castle, this extraordinary collection of manuscripts, rare books, and artefacts from Europe, the Middle East, and Asia has twice been named European Museum of the Year. From ancient Egyptian texts to Japanese woodblock prints — free and fascinating.Literary
The Little Museum of Dublin
A charmingly eccentric museum in a Georgian townhouse on St. Stephen's Green, telling Dublin's 20th-century story through objects donated by the public. From U2 memorabilia to tales of Queen Victoria's visit — the guided tours are witty, warm, and endlessly entertaining.History
Jeanie Johnston Famine Ship
Board a full-scale replica of an 1847 emigrant vessel moored on the Liffey. Costumed guides recount the harrowing journey of famine emigrants to North America. The Jeanie Johnston is remarkable for never losing a single passenger or crew member across 16 transatlantic voyages.Modern Art
IMMA — Irish Museum of Modern Art
Set in the magnificent 17th-century Royal Hospital Kilmainham, IMMA houses Ireland's national collection of modern and contemporary art. The building alone is worth the visit, with beautifully restored formal gardens. Free entry to permanent collections.Explore
Dublin's Neighbourhoods
Each of Dublin's neighbourhoods has its own distinct character. Wander beyond the tourist trail and discover the city locals love.
Iconic
Temple Bar
Dublin's most famous cultural quarter — a maze of narrow cobblestone streets packed with pubs, live music, vintage shops, and galleries. Yes, it's touristy, but the energy is infectious. Visit the Temple Bar Food Market on Saturdays, browse the vintage stores, and soak up the atmosphere.Shopping
Grafton Street & Creative Quarter
Dublin's elegant main shopping street is alive with buskers and performers — Ed Sheeran famously played here before making it big. Just off Grafton, the Creative Quarter around Drury Street and South William Street is packed with independent boutiques, coffee shops, and some of the city's best restaurants.Georgian
Merrion Square & Georgian Dublin
Dublin's finest Georgian square, lined with immaculate townhouses sporting those famous colourful doors. Oscar Wilde's childhood home is here, marked by a wonderfully irreverent statue in the park. The square is also home to the National Gallery and the Natural History Museum.Hipster
Stoneybatter
Dublin's trendiest village neighbourhood, packed with independent cafés, craft beer bars, and some of the city's best casual dining. L. Mulligan Grocer and The Cobblestone (legendary for traditional music) are both here. A lovely area to explore on foot with genuine local character.Foodie
Portobello & Camden Street
The buzzing stretch from Camden Street down to Portobello along the Grand Canal is Dublin's unofficial restaurant mile. Some of the city's most exciting dining — Pickle, Variety Jones, Craft — sits alongside vintage shops, cocktail bars, and a gorgeous canal-side walk.Seaside
Howth
A charming fishing village on a dramatic headland just 25 minutes by DART train. Walk the cliff path for spectacular sea views, feast on fresh seafood at the harbour, and visit the Saturday morning Howth Market. One of the best easy escapes from the city centre.Coastal
Dún Laoghaire
An elegant Victorian harbour town with a magnificent mile-long pier perfect for an afternoon stroll. Great restaurants, the excellent Pavilion Theatre, and access to the famous Forty Foot bathing spot at nearby Sandycove (where Joyce's Ulysses opens). Easily reached by DART.Seaside
Dalkey
An affluent coastal village with a medieval castle, charming independent shops, and superb restaurants. Known locally as the "Bel Air" of Dublin (Bono and Enya are residents), the Dalkey-to-Killiney coastal walk offers arguably the most stunning views in the Dublin area.Green Spaces
Parks & Outdoors
Dublin is one of the greenest capital cities in Europe, with parks, coastal walks, and mountains all within easy reach of the city centre.
City Park
Phoenix Park
One of Europe's largest enclosed urban parks — twice the size of New York's Central Park. Home to a herd of wild fallow deer, the Áras an Uachtaráin (President's residence), Dublin Zoo, and miles of walking and cycling paths. Rent a bike and explore — you could spend an entire day here.City Park
St. Stephen's Green
A beautifully landscaped Victorian park in the heart of the city, perfect for a lunchtime stroll or a rest between sightseeing. Lush gardens, a duck pond, ornamental bridges, and benches shaded by mature trees. A peaceful escape just steps from Grafton Street.Cliff Walk
Howth Cliff Walk
A spectacular coastal loop trail around Howth Head with dramatic sea cliffs, panoramic views of Dublin Bay and the Wicklow Mountains, and a good chance of spotting seals. Multiple route options from gentle to challenging. Reward yourself with fresh seafood in the village afterwards.Coastal
Killiney Hill & Beach
Often compared to the Bay of Naples, the view from Killiney Hill over Dublin Bay is breathtaking. A short climb through woodland leads to a Victorian obelisk with sweeping panoramas. Below, Killiney Beach stretches for a kilometre — perfect for a swim or walk on a fine day.Mountains
Dublin Mountains
A range of low mountains and hills just 30 minutes south of the city offering hiking, mountain biking, and spectacular views. Ticknock, Three Rock, and the Hellfire Club are popular walks. For a pub reward, Johnnie Fox's — reputedly Ireland's highest pub — is nearby.Botanical
National Botanic Gardens
19.5 hectares of beautifully maintained gardens in Glasnevin, featuring restored Victorian glasshouses (designed by Richard Turner, who also built the Palm House at Kew), a rose garden, an alpine yard, and over 15,000 plant species. Completely free and utterly lovely.Food & Drink
Where to Eat
Dublin's food scene has exploded in recent years. From Michelin-starred fine dining to the city's best burger, here are the restaurants we'd recommend to a friend.
Chapter One
Two Michelin Stars · Irish-FrenchSetting the standard in Dublin for over 20 years. Contemporary Irish cuisine with a French twist in the former home of whiskey maker George Jameson. An exceptional fine dining experience.Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud
Two Michelin Stars · French-IrishDublin's most celebrated restaurant since 1981. Seasonal tasting menus with impeccable service in elegant Merrion Hotel surroundings. A once-in-a-trip splurge.Variety Jones
Michelin Star · Tasting MenuA family-owned gem in The Liberties. Six-course chef's choice sharing menus that are inventive, beautifully executed, and full of personality. Intimate and special.Hawksmoor Dublin
Steakhouse · Special OccasionSet beneath a breathtaking 40-foot cast-iron dome in a former bank, serving some of the best steak in Dublin. Outstanding service, gorgeous interiors, and legendary beef-dripping chips.Pickle
Indian · Camden StreetChef Sunil Ghai's award-winning Indian restaurant is arguably the best in Dublin. The Punjabi Samosa Chaat and Lahsooni Fish Curry are exceptional. Book ahead — set sittings.The Winding Stair
Irish · Liffey ViewsOverlooking the Ha'penny Bridge, this beloved restaurant serves seasonal Irish produce elevated to nouvelle cuisine heights. The charcuterie, cider-braised pork cheeks, and stout mousse are all superb.Lena
Italian · PortobelloFrom the team behind Uno Mas and Etto — called "the perfect restaurant" by the Irish Times. Neighbourhood Italian done brilliantly. Try for a walk-in counter seat if it's booked out.Achara
Thai BBQ · Aston QuayNorthern Thai BBQ-inspired cooking that feels like exactly what Dublin needed. Chilli caramel fish sauce wings, chargrilled whole fish, and premium cocktails. Buzzy, exciting, and flavour-packed.allta
Modern Irish · Fine DiningChef Niall Davidson's approach is rooted in hyper-local, seasonal Irish ingredients with influences from his travels. Named 2025 Fine Dining Restaurant of the Year. Listed in the Michelin Guide.FIRE Steakhouse & Bar
Steak · Dawson StreetDining in the Lord Mayor's original 1864 supper room — vaulted ceilings, stained glass, and a terrace overlooking the Mansion House gardens. Multi-award-winning steaks and cocktails.Gallagher's Boxty House
Traditional Irish · Temple BarThe best place in Dublin for boxty — traditional Irish potato pancakes — served with creative fillings from smoked salmon to lamb stew. Authentic, hearty, and genuinely delicious.Craft
Modern Irish · Harold's CrossChef Philip Yeung's neighbourhood gem with a Michelin Bib Gourmand. Modern Irish cuisine that's won multiple awards. A short walk from Rathmines and Ranelagh.Chimac
Korean Fried ChickenVibey Korean chicken from the team behind London's Butchies. KFC burgers, amazing sauces, and an almost exclusively Irish craft beer list. Casual, fun, and absolutely delicious.Las Tapas de Lola
Spanish · Wexford StreetAward-winning Spanish tapas, fine wines, and sangria on buzzy Wexford Street. Perfect for sharing plates on a date night or group gathering. The croquetas are legendary.Café en Seine
Brasserie · CocktailsA stunning Parisian-inspired venue on Dawson Street with indoor garden, dramatic interiors, and excellent cocktails alongside brasserie dining. As much an experience as a meal.The Brazen Head
Traditional Irish · Pub FoodIreland's oldest pub (established 1198!) serving hearty traditional fare. The beef stew is famous for good reason. Live music most nights. A genuine piece of Dublin history.Nightlife
Pubs & Live Music
The Dublin pub is a cultural institution — a place for conversation, music, and the perfect pint. Here are some of the city's finest, from traditional trad sessions to literary haunts.
Traditional Music
The Cobblestone
The beating heart of traditional Irish music in Dublin. This unassuming Smithfield pub draws the finest trad musicians for nightly sessions that are raw, authentic, and electrifying. No gimmicks, no tourist traps — just pure music. The front bar sessions are legendary.Historic
The Brazen Head
Dating to 1198, this is officially Ireland's oldest pub and it still thrums with life. Low ceilings, stone walls, open fires, live music most nights, and some of the best pub food in the city. Robert Emmet, Daniel O'Connell, and Jonathan Swift all drank here.Literary
The Long Hall
One of Dublin's most beautiful Victorian pubs, virtually unchanged since 1881. Ornate mirrors, carved wood, gas-style lamps, and a long mahogany bar that's served generations of writers and dreamers. The kind of pub that makes you want to stay for hours.Craft Beer
L. Mulligan Grocer
A Stoneybatter institution blending the character of an old grocery pub with a stellar craft beer selection and exceptional food. The cockles and mussels, whiskey-cured salmon, and Irish cheese board are all outstanding. A local favourite.Iconic
Temple Bar Pub
The most photographed pub in Ireland with its crimson red façade and flower baskets. Yes, it's touristy and pricey — but the atmosphere, especially during weekend trad sessions, is genuinely electric. Visit at least once for the experience.Snug
Kehoe's
A beloved traditional pub on South Anne Street where Dubliners gather shoulder-to-shoulder. The tiny snug at the front is one of the cosiest spots in the city. No music, no TV — just conversation, pints, and atmosphere. Perfect.Cocktails
The Vintage Cocktail Club
Behind an unmarked door lies this 1920s-inspired speakeasy — soft candlelight, plush seating, and expertly crafted cocktails. Dublin's most glamorous hidden bar. Perfect for a pre-dinner or post-show drink with a sense of occasion.Traditional Music
The Celt
A warm, welcoming pub on Talbot Street with live traditional music sessions nightly. Less tourist-heavy than Temple Bar, more authentic atmosphere, and a great spot to hear fiddles, bodhráns, and tin whistles played by real enthusiasts.Explore Further
Day Trips
Dublin is perfectly placed for exploring Ireland's Ancient East and beyond. These destinations are all easily reached by car, train, or organised tour.
Must See Day Trip
Glendalough
A breathtaking glacial valley in the Wicklow Mountains, home to a remarkable 6th-century monastic settlement founded by St. Kevin. Walk among round towers and Celtic crosses, then hike to the stunning Upper Lake surrounded by ancient oak woods. One of Ireland's most magical places — combine with a drive through the Wicklow Mountains and Sally Gap for an unforgettable day out.UNESCO · 45 min
Brú na Bóinne — Newgrange
The "Garden of Ireland" — wild, dramatic mountain scenery just south of Dublin. Drive the Military Road through Sally Gap for sweeping bog landscapes, or take the scenic route through Powerscourt Waterfall (Ireland's highest) and the beautiful village of Enniskerry.Gardens · 40 min
Powerscourt Estate
Frequently voted among the world's top ten gardens, Powerscourt's 47 acres of manicured grounds sit beneath the dramatic backdrop of the Sugar Loaf Mountain. Italian and Japanese gardens, sweeping terraces, and a magnificent waterfall nearby. The Avoca café is perfect for lunch.Medieval · 1.5 hours
Kilkenny
Ireland's medieval capital, dominated by the magnificent 13th-century Kilkenny Castle. Wander cobblestone laneways, visit the Design Centre for Irish crafts, climb the Round Tower at St. Canice's Cathedral, and finish with a pint in Kyteler's Inn — a pub since 1324.History · 1 hour
The Battle of the Boyne Visitor Centre
The site of Ireland's most famous battle in 1690, set in the beautiful grounds of Oldbridge House on the banks of the River Boyne. Interactive exhibitions, a walled garden, and scenic walking trails along the riverbanks where history was made.Coastal · 1 hour
Malahide Castle
A stunningly well-preserved 12th-century castle set in 260 acres of parkland, just 25 minutes north of Dublin. Home to the Talbot family for 800 years, the guided tour reveals centuries of fascinating history. The castle gardens and Avoca café are delightful.Heritage · 2 hours
Rock of Cashel
One of Ireland's most spectacular sites — a dramatic cluster of medieval buildings crowning a limestone outcrop in County Tipperary. The round tower, Gothic cathedral, and Romanesque chapel are simply unforgettable, with sweeping views across the Golden Vale. Worth the longer drive.Your Guide
Interactive Map
Explore all the places mentioned in this guide. Click any pin for details.
Good to Know
Local Tips
Insider notes to help you make the most of your Dublin stay.