My beautiful hometown of Dublin City. It is the one place I would highly recommend you add to your 2018 list of adventures.
The Capital of Ireland, Dublin city, situated against the banks of The River Liffey, is steeped in history and architecture, dating back as far as medieval times. At the same time, it is flooded with an endless array of restaurants, boutiques and lots more. Whether you enjoy cocktails, art, spas or shopping there is something for everyone in Dublin.
Let us take a look at my Top Ten Must See’s in Dublin
Guinness Storehouse
The Guinness Storehouse is Ireland’s most popular tourist attraction. Situated in in St. James’s Gate Brewery and an ideal starting place in Dublin. This interactive museum commences at the basin of ‘the world’s largest pint glass’ and continues up through seven floors filled with museums, cafes and allows you a chance to step back into Irish history.
On the top floor, you will be gifted with a pint of Guinness at the rooftop Gravity Bar, you can drink in true Irish style whilst savouring the spectacular views over Dublin City. A place not to miss.
The Merrion Hotel
The Merrion Hotel is an elegant 5-Star Georgian Hotel, originally four Georgian townhouses converted into a hotel. It is located in the heart of Dublin city centre, and whether you decide to stay or not, its a must visit. Try the spa, or enjoy lunch or dinner at the 2-star Michelin Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud or in the stunning gardens or The Garden Room. Otherwise try drinks at The Cellar Bar or No. 23 Cocktail Bar.
Grafton Street
For all the shopping lovers, Dublin’s destination shopping street is where you need to head, named after Henry FitzRoy, 1st Duke of Grafton.
The architecture is exquisite and it hosts some of the world’s most renowned brands, mostly in the Brown Thomas lifestyle store. Along with various pubs, cafes and coffee shops to dine at, carry on to The Powerscourt Centre and South William Street, which are equally fantastic. Its a the top of my favourite spots to spend an afternoon strolling, dining and shopping.
The Westbury Hotel
Stepping off Grafton Street, you will find The Westbury Hotel, part of The Doyle Collection, one of Dublin’s most renowned Hotels. The interiors are elegant and stylish and I would recommend high tea in The Gallery or cocktails in The Sidecar, inspired by the 1930s.
Trinity College – The Book of Kells
Located at the end of Grafton Street, Trinity College Dublin, Ireland’s oldest College was built in 1592, and boasts some of the spectacular rooms, a style seen only in Harry Potter movies. ‘The Book of Kells’ Exhibition is located in the Old Library and is a must see for anyone visiting Dublin. See main picture for the Library.
The National Gallery of Ireland
The National Gallery of Ireland, just off Merrion Square, was established in 1854 and hosts some of the most beautiful Irish and International works of art. In order to truly enjoy the gallery, I would recommend booking in a tour. Or if you are lucky book in an art class which will make your experience even more memorable.
Vintage Cocktail Club
Knock on the unassuming black door of VCC and get ready to be ushered in to 3 floors of lush, vintage chic in a speakeasy style. In the heart of bustling Temple Bar, you’ll indulge in cocktails. Not just any cocktails, but real cocktails, and amazing food. Blink and you’ll find you’ve been there for hours! Open for brunch at the weekends and dinner (or just cocktails!) every night. Book ahead!
The Dean Hotel
This sleek London/New York boutique style hotel is a fantastic place to stay for anyone visiting Dublin, with a good range of rooms and prices. Centrally placed with various options for food and drinks, including Sophie’s stylish ‘glasshouse’ restaurant, which has panoramic views across Dublin. Its very young at heart, with great atmosphere and live music at the weekends. Don’t forget to try out the swing!
HQ Restaurant & Gastropub
For laidback cool, try out Dublin’s HQ Restaurant and Gastropub situated at the beautiful Grand Canal Square. It is ideally placed to visit while taking a walk around Temple Bar, before a show in The Olympia or a walk by the stunning historic sites such as Dublin Castle or Christchurch Cathedral.
The Phoenix Park
The Phoenix Park is one of Europe’s largest open-air parks, consisting of 1752 acres. It hosts various historic sculptures, a café, polo grounds and the spectacular building of Áras an Uachtaráin, home of the President of Ireland. If you are lucky you will enjoy the beautiful deer who are residents of the park, and in fact how the park started life, as a royal deer park for King Charles II in 1662. Ideal for families or those who love the outdoors.
Any Questions or Tips to add?