In For A Treat: Lucky Charms & Guinness!
Welcome to Dublin! If you’re here, you’re here for a fantastic adventure through the capital of Ireland. Ireland’s friendly, welcoming spirit makes it so special. From the lively streets of Temple Bar to the stunning Dublin Castle, Dublin is packed with surprises.
Whether you’re a curious solo traveller or a local ready to explore, I’ll share some info, tips, and suggestions on Dublin’s must-see attractions and charms. Are you ready?
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The streets. Ireland’s centre symbol – spire and General Post Office
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Language & Currency In Dublin
Language: Ireland has two official languages, Irish (Gaeilge) and English. Irish is a Celtic language and is the first official language of Ireland. You’ll see it on road signs, public buildings, and official documents. While Irish is taught in schools and spoken in certain regions known as Gaeltacht areas, most people in Ireland speak English daily in business, education, and media.
Currency: Ireland uses the Euro (€) as its official currency. Banknotes come in values of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, and 500 Euros, although the higher denominations are less commonly used in daily transactions. Although credit cards are accepted in most establishments, carrying some cash is always a good idea, especially if you’re venturing into more rural areas.
Explore Dublin, home to Guinness and good vibes
Hop-On-Hop-Off (HOHO) Bus
Firstly, grab a 2-day Hop-On-Hop-Off Pass (HOHO Pass) before diving into Dublin. This pass is a total game-changer, saving you time and money while whisking you directly to the city’s main attractions. The best part? You can hop on and off at any stop along the route as much as you like! I love its convenience and feel confident using this pass as a solo traveller.
The Dublin route has 25 fantastic stops and takes about 105 minutes. When you hop on, you’ll get a super handy map showing all the key attractions at each stop. Plus, you’ll receive complimentary earphones with fun and engaging commentary during the ride. So sit back, relax, and get ready to explore Dublin in style.
Opt for a HOHO Bus Tour to kick off your experience!
Iveagh Gardens
Check out the Iveagh Gardens in Dublin, Ireland, a hidden gem called ‘Dublin’s Secret Garden.’ It is known for its tranquil and picturesque setting, combining formal gardens with a touch of natural wilderness. The gardens feature formal and informal styles, including sunken lawns, rockeries, woodlands, fountains, and a maze. One of the most striking features is the cascade, a series of waterfalls leading to a rustic grotto. This area offers a peaceful retreat within the city.
Cascade and fountains inside Iveagh Gardens
Dublin Castle
Dublin Castle is like stepping into a time machine right in the middle of Dublin! Built in the 13th century for King John of England, it became the HQ for British rule until Ireland became free in 1922. You’ll love exploring the super old Norman Record Tower and the swanky State Apartments inside Dublin Castle, where you can imagine yourself at royal parties in the Throne Room and St. Patrick’s Hall.
Don’t miss the peaceful Dubh Linn Gardens, once a black pool and now a perfect spot to chill. And the Chapel Royal? It’s a 19th-century Gothic masterpiece. Dublin Castle is a fun blend of epic history, cool architecture, and pretty gardens—definitely a must-visit, which you can also do on a City Walking Tour.
Inside the stunning Dublin Castle
St. Andrews Streets
Explore St. Andrews, a popular area, perfect for catching a vibe. Here, you’ll find amazing restaurants, bars, street artwork, Irish music, Guinness, and a deep feel of Irish charm. Stop by The Old Storehouse Bar & Restaurant, where you can drown yourself in Guinness! Or The Street Food Factory shop, where you can indulge in amazing noodles, delicious fried chicken cones, bubble waffles, yummy skewers and crofles- croissant waffles! Finally, spend your evening at the famous Temple Bar, where Irish music runs into the night for a true, providing an authentic Irish experience.
Love the streets in St. Andrews – so vibrant!
Molly Malone Statue
Located nearby, the Molly Malone statue on Suffolk Street is a must-see for anyone visiting the city for a bit of banter. This beloved landmark celebrates the legendary fishmonger from the catchy Irish tune ‘Molly Malone’ or ‘Cockles and Mussels’. Sculpted by Jeanne Rynhart in 1988, Molly is showcased in her 17th-century uniform, pushing a seafood cart through the streets.
Originally at the bottom of Grafton Street, she moved to Suffolk Street in 2014 and has been stealing hearts (and photo opportunities) ever since. Don’t forget to give her a friendly rub for good luck – her polished bosom is a testament to her charm!
Molly Malone is a popular attraction on Suffolk Street
Saint Patrick’s Park & Cathedral
Stumble upon lush gardens, colourful flowerbeds, and a tranquil water feature in Saint Patrick’s Park, right next to the grandeur of Saint Patrick’s Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece from the 12th century. Inside, you can peek at Jonathan Swift’s final resting place and even check out the quirky Door of Reconciliation, where ancient feuds were settled with a handshake through a hole! This cool place is great for chilling and offers great photo opportunities.
The stunning St. Patrick’s Park & Cathedral
St. Nicholas
St. Nicholas’ Church in Galway is like a cool time capsule! It’s been around since the 1300s and is dedicated to St. Nicholas, who inspired Santa Claus. The church has this remarkable steeple called the Lantern of the West that sailors used to look for when they sailed into port. Inside, it’s all about those fancy stained glass windows and cool wood carvings that make you feel like you’ve entered a medieval fairy tale. But it’s not all history; St. Nicholas is also a hotspot for concerts and fun events that unite the community.
St. Nicolas in Galway
Famine Memorial
The Famine Memorial near Custom House Quay in Dublin is like a powerful history lesson wrapped in bronze sculptures. Created by artist Rowan Gillespie, these statues show people from Ireland’s past going through tough times with style. Even though they’re serious, they remind us of how strong and determined the Irish can be, even when things get really tough. It’s a spot where you can think about history and honour the people who faced challenges head-on, all while being reminded that Dublin has a spirit that never gives up.
The memorial represents the powerful history of Ireland
Ha’ Penny Bridge
Originally called the Wellington Bridge but better known for its halfpenny toll (hence the nickname), this curvaceous Ha’Penny Bridge spans the River Liffey with a flair that’s as much about history as it is about Instagram-worthy views. Whether a local crossing on your daily hustle or a visitor capturing that perfect Dublin moment, the Ha’penny Bridge invites you to stroll, snap, and soak in its delightful blend of old-world elegance and modern-day allure. You can also do a River Liffey Boat Tour to pass the Ha’Penny Bridge.
Walk across the popular Ha’Penny Bridge
Cloud Nine
Looking for a cute Instagrammable spot? Cloud Nine Dublin is the ultimate haven in the city’s heart, where every visit feels like a luxurious escape. This trendy spot offers a perfect blend of cosy ambience and chic decor, making it an ideal destination for indulging in delicious treats and quality coffee. Whether catching up with friends over brunch or enjoying a peaceful moment alone, Cloud Nine Dublin promises a relaxing and uplifting experience. It’s more than just a cafe—it’s a sanctuary where you can unwind, recharge, and savour the simple joys of life amidst Dublin’s vibrant energy.
Cloud Nine in Dublin – A great Instagrammable spot
Drinking Experiences In Dublin
If you’re visiting for a boozy day and night out, Dublin offers an eventful experience with bars and cool places offering just that. Alternatively, you could do a Guinness Tour. Here are a few museums and distilleries you could also check out while in Ireland:
Irish Whiskey Museum: Discover Irish whiskey’s fascinating history and heritage through interactive exhibits and guided tours, showcasing its evolution from ancient times to modern-day production.
Teeling Whiskey Distillery: Experience the spirit of Dublin’s first new distillery in over a century. Teeling offers tours that delve into their innovative approach to whiskey-making, culminating in tastings of their award-winning spirits.
Pearse Lyons Whiskey Distillery: Located in a historic church, this distillery combines traditional whiskey-making techniques with a unique setting. On a whiskey tour, visitors can explore the process and enjoy tastings in a truly atmospheric environment.
Jameson Distillery Bow St.: Dive into the rich heritage of Jameson, Ireland’s most iconic whiskey brand. Tour their historic distillery, learn about their triple-distillation process, and sample their smooth, signature whiskey blends.
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That’s A Wrap!
As you can see, Dublin offers a boozy, stunning experience, ideal for a day or a weekend getaway! Whether you’re seeking a chilled look around the city on a solo trip type of experience or a whole immersive Irish night out in a local bar, Dublin welcomes you to a fabulous getaway! So what are you waiting for?
