Dublin is widely known as one of the world’s most cosmopolitan and enjoyable cities to visit. The 1,000 year-old city effortlessly blends its rich history with its modern day role as a technological hub, with shiny new tech headquarters just around the corner from centuries-old pubs. With so many things to do and places to see, it can be overwhelming to try to decide what to include in your Irish itinerary. Here are our top picks:
Dublin Castle
While not a traditional medieval castle, Dublin Castle is a mix-and-match of architecture ranging from the 13th to the 18th centuries. Once the seat of the British government in Ireland, the castle is now only used for the occasional state function. Guided tours depart every 20-30 minutes, the highlight of which is the underground portion of the old castle, which was discovered by accident in 1986. The foundation of the medieval section was built by Vikings and is made partially from ox blood, egg shells, and horse hair!
Trinity College & the Book of Kells
Ireland’s most prestigious university is one of the world’s oldest, having been established in 1592, and is also home to one of its most well-known artifacts, the Book of Kells. Housed within the university’s library, which is also home to over 4.5 million books and numerous manuscripts, maps, and original scores, the Book of Kells is one of the oldest books in the world. This 8th-century illustrated copy of the Four Gospels was painstakingly produced on calfskin and is beautifully illustrated.
Newgrange
This prehistoric monument 45 minutes north of Dublin in County Meath was built sometime between 3,000BC and 2,500BC, making it older than both Stonehenge and the Egyptian Pyramids. The monument consists of a large mound roughly 250 feet across and 40 feet high, with several passages and chambers in its interior. This mysterious and intriguing site can only be visited by guided tour, either through the on-site visitor center or an approved tour company.
Guinness Storehouse
Dublin’s top tourist attraction, this shrine to Ireland’s most famous beer takes visitors on a seven-story tour through the history and brewing process of the black gold itself. The tour culminates with a pint at the building’s Gravity Bar, Dublin’s highest, which offers spectacular 360-degree views of the city and surrounding countryside. Make sure to pre-book your tour to avoid the lines.
Powerscourt Estate
Just 45 minutes south of Dublin city center lies one of Ireland’s grandest country estates. Powerscourt is renowned for its fine architecture and lush public gardens, which were recently named the third-best in the world by National Geographic. Additionally, Ireland’s highest waterfall is less than four miles from the property. The estate dates back to the 13th century, with the main house and gardens being extensively remodeled throughout the 1700s. The gardens took over 150 years to be fully completed, and today feature a wide variety of flora and scenery.
