10 Must Do Things in Dublin
As the capital city (and largest) in The Republic of Ireland, there is always something to do in Dublin. It is a must see whether you are traveling throughout the UK, Europe or were inspired by countless photos on Instagram. Before visiting the Emerald Isle on my recent road trip on the Wild Atlantic Way, it had been almost a decade since I had been in Dublin last. I set out to explore every inch and as an added bonus, celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with the locals for the first time in two years due to the shutdowns created by the Covid pandemic.
If you’re looking for a vacation filled with beautiful scenery, historical sites, and a drop of whiskey – look no further than the Emerald Isle. Even being in Dublin for a short while is like walking into history, accompanied by lively music. Here are 10 must do things in Dublin to start your Irish adventure!
Trinity College and The Book of Kells
You can get lost spending an afternoon in Trinity College. Getting to also visit one of Ireland’s most cherished treasures, the Book of Kells and stand in awe of the Long Room, is just icing on the cake. Upon entering the Book of Kells exhibit, you’ll first learn about the symbolism and history behind the illuminated manuscript of the four Gospels of the New Testament. However, only a few pages of this 1,200 year old book are on display at a time.
After you get a chance to take a look at the manuscript, walk into one of the most beautiful libraries you’ve ever seen. The breathtaking Long Room Library is home to thousands upon thousands of ancient books. There are other displays in the Long Room as well, including one of the last remaining copies of the Proclamation of the Irish Republic and the oldest medieval harp.
EPIC Museum
The EPIC Museum in the heart of Dublin is an absolute must visit. Opening its doors in 2016, The Irish Emigration Museum celebrates Irish culture. You will have the chance to discover why Irish people left, came back and how they influenced the world. With its interactive exhibits, you can touch, play and sing along to knowing what its like to be Irish!
Dublin Castle
Serving as the headquarters of the English and later British administration in Ireland for centuries, this thirteenth century castle is now a major tourist attraction in the heart of Dublin. A short walk from Trinity College, you’ll get to visit the State Apartments, Chapel Royal and the Medieval Section.
Guinness Storehouse
One of the most iconic landmarks in Dublin has got to be Guinness Storehouse. Be warned, this is more than your average brewery. There are floors dedicated to the history, making and drinking of Ireland’s most famous beer. After visiting all of their exhibits, don’t forget to make your way up to their Gravity Bar. Not only will have you have 360 degree views of Dublin, but that’s where you’ll get to enjoy a pint of Ireland’s most famous beer.
Temple Bar Pub
Located on the South Bank of the River Liffey, the Temple Bar district has been transformed over the years from a marshland to an area with friendly pubs. One of the more iconic pubs you won’t want to miss is Temple Bar. This cool and quirky pub is popular among artists and poets. It features live music every day and has one of the largest whiskey selections you’ll ever see.
Jameson Distillery
There are many choices if you’re interested in learning about (and drinking) whiskey in Ireland. But none are like the Jameson Distillery. Rated as one of the World’s best distillery tours, a visit here will include so much more than just the history of it. You’ll get touch, smell and taste Jameson in the original Bow St. Distillery building. There are also quite a few extra options you can add for your guided experience. In addition to the regular distillery tour, you can also add a cocktail making class, premium whiskey tasting or learn how to blend you own whiskey.
Afternoon Tea with Vintage Tea Trips
An afternoon spent on a Vintage Tea Trip should be on every itinerary. You will enjoy afternoon tea, tasty delicacies and a curated tour of Dublin city. Board the fully retrofitted vintage double decker bus in Temple Bar and get ready to see all the famous sites.
Afternoon tea includes all of your favorites! From freshly made sandwiches, to desserts, cakes, and pastries, you won’t want to miss out on the treats. No afternoon tea is complete of course without it’s main attraction, tea and scones, which there are plenty of too! While there is no official commentary on board, the staff does a great job sharing stories and answering any questions along your trip around Dublin.
Ha’Penny Bridge
One of the most famous bridges in Dublin, the Ha’Penny Bridge, is right across from the Temple Bar district. This architectural beauty is a must see even to just walk across it. Known as one of the symbols of the city, it was the first pedestrian pathways across the River Liffey.
Saint Patrick’s Cathedral
No visit to Dublin during the Saint Patrick’s Day festivities is complete without also visiting the cathedral by the same name. As the largest cathedral in Ireland, St. Patrick’s has been a part of Irish history since it was founded in 1191. Now as the national cathedral of the Church of Ireland, it is one of the few remaining medieval buildings left in Dublin.
Irish Whiskey Museum
Are you starting to see a theme here? Whiskey, beer and maybe a museum or two thrown in the mix? Although Dublin is home to numerous whiskey distilleries, there is only one Irish Whiskey Museum. And what do you know, they also have a whiskey tasting at the end of their tour!
During their tour, you’ll travel back in time and learn about the rise and fall of whiskey. I even was able to sample some whiskey’s that I had never tried before. For the whiskey connoisseurs, you are able to add on tasting a premium whiskey or if that’s not to you’re liking, head to their bar for an Irish coffee instead.
Are you feeling inspired to visit the Emerald Isle? Keep on reading for my Ultimate Guide to a Wild Atlantic Way Road Trip for more inspiration!