Wednesday, 20 April 2011

7 Ideas of What to Do in Dublin


Dublin, Ireland is a beautiful city and if you have some time before touring the countryside then make sure to check out these 7 things to do in DublinEven if you only have a day in the city you can see a most if not all of these things if you plan it right.

1. Book of Kells at Trinity College

Book of Kells - Trinity College

The Book of Kells also known as the Book of Columba is a book in Latin containing the four gospels: Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John and it dates back to 800 when it was created by Celtic monks.  It is also known as Irelands greatest treasure and is contains Western calligraphy. So if you have the chance to see it – definitely do it. And since it’s at Trinity College take the time to walk around this beautiful campus.

2. Christ Church Cathedral

christs church cathedral - dublin

Christ Church Cathedral is believed to have been founded originally by the Vikings but the oldest manuscript actually date back to 1038. Not only can you walk around the church, but you can also go to the crypt and the treasury. The church has changed over the centuries but notice how beautiful the mosaic floors are.

3. Dublin Castle

Castle in Dublin

At the heart of historic Dublin is the castle. And according to the Dublin tourism website the city actually gets its name from a pond located on the castle grounds called “Dubh Linn.” There are guided tours throughout the castle but they’re at specific times so be sure to plan ahead. However, if you are able to take a tour you will be able to see the State Apartments, Undercroft, and Chapel Royal. If you’re unable to take a tour then I suggest just walking around the castle, because if we’re being honest here, if you’ve seen one castle you’ve pretty much seen them all.

4. Temple Bar

pubs in temple bar district

When people think of Ireland, one of the first things that come to mind are pubs. The pubs are particularly busy after work because the Irish like to meet up for a drink with friends and where they usually go are the pubs located in the Temple Bar district. Whether you’re thirsty, hungry, or you just want to listen to Celtic music stop by the pubs because this will give you a peek into their culture. And then afterward take a walk around the city. The city is safe and beautiful especially at night and there are many bridges spanning the Liffy River.

5. Guinness Factory

guinness storehouse dublin

If you’re a beer drinker then according to the Irishmen you must stop at the Guinness Storehouse.  This is the number 1 visitor attraction in Dublin so that’s proof enough. Plus at the end of your tour you will receive a free pint.

6. Grafton Street Shopping

Molly Malone Statue - Grafton Street

Grafton Street as well as Henry Street contain a number of Irish stores including a department store Brown Thomas. If you’re looking for something Irish that isn’t cheap and it’s good quality then I would recommend going to the Kilkenny Shop.

7. Kilmainham Gaol

Kilmainham Gaol (dublin jail)

This jail dates back to 1792 and it has held many prisoners including both Nationalists and Republicans from the Irish Rebellions. Both men and women have been executed at the jail. It contained prisoners until 1924 and since then it has been turned into a museum. Visitors can tour the prison and visit the gift shop. If you’ve never been to an old prison before then I would recommend stopping in.
 

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