Geography
Dublin is the capital of the Republic of Ireland and the largest city on the island of Ireland. Situated on the east coast of the island, Dublin is located at the mouth of the River Liffey and encompasses an area of 118 square kilometers. Famous for its vibrant culture, history, and nightlife, Dublin is the perfect destination for those seeking a delightful getaway.
The city is divided into suburbs including the lively Temple Bar district and the upmarket Ballsbridge area. Dublin is also home to some of the country’s most renowned attractions, including the iconic An Post, Guinness Storehouse and Phoenix Park – Dublin’s oldest park established in 1662.
Climate
Dublin has a temperate and maritime climate that is characterized by mild temperatures throughout the year. In the summer, Dublin experiences a pleasantly warm climate with temperatures ranging from 9 – 17 degrees Celsius (48 – 63 Fahrenheit). Meanwhile during the winter, temperatures can drop as low as 4 – 6 degrees Celsius (35 – 44 Fahrenheit).
Despite the mild climate, Dublin is occasionally subject to heavy storms from the Atlantic that can bring an ample amount of rain and the occasional thunderstorm.
Getting Around
Dublin has a sophisticated public transport system. The main form of transportation in the city are the double-decker buses – one of the city’s most iconic symbols. The buses are frequent and will take you from one side of the city to the other for a small fee of €2.80.
The city also has an integrated railway with two light railways, the DART and the LUAS, connecting most of Dublin’s neighbourhoods. However, the best way to explore Dublin is on foot, as many of the city’s attractions are within walking distance.
Food
Dublin is known for its wide selection of pubs, cafés and restaurants dotted throughout the city. From decadent seafood dishes and traditional Irish cuisine to international specialties, you can find almost anything in Dublin. Popular local dishes include coddle, a hearty stew of sausage, bacon and potato, and Dublin coddle, and the ever popular Irish stew.
For the lover of coffee, there is no shortage of cafés serving up rich Irish-style espresso. Be sure to stop by one of the city’s many independent cafés for a cup of coffee and a slice of cake.
Nightlife
Dublin is a popular destination for revelers, with its lively nightlife and music scene. Temple Bar is filled with bars and pubs playing live music, ranging from traditional Irish folk to modern pop and rock. Alternatively, there are some great clubs offering the best in house and techno music. Dublin is the perfect destination for those looking to let loose after dark.
Our top picks for clubs and nightlife include The Severed Head, The Button Factory, and The Grand Social.
Festivities
Dublin is home to numerous festivals and events throughout the year. The city’s largest event is the St Patrick’s Day Festival, which takes place every March 17th. This holiday is celebrated with parades, live music, street performances, and of course plenty of Irish beer.
Other popular festivals include Bloom in the Park, which is held in early June and showcases the beauty of Ireland’s flora, and Oktoberfest, which takes place in September – October and celebrates German culture.
Shopping
Dublin has dozens of shopping areas, offering an array of products from both local Irish artisans and international brands. The city’s main shopping area is Grafton Street, which is home to acclaimed department stores such as Pennys and Arnotts. For the budget-minded traveller, check out the city’s many second-hand stores, which offer vintage and second-hand clothes, books, and furniture.
The city also has a selection of flea markets. Our top picks are Grand Canal Flea Market, The Liberties Flea Market and Croke Park Flea Market.
Attractions
Apart from its vibrant nightlife and shopping scene, Dublin is home to some of the country’s best attractions. Popular sites in the city include the Guinness Storehouse, Dublin Castle, and Trinity College.
The Guinness Storehouse is a must-visit for beer-lovers, as it documents the fascinating history of the brand. Meanwhile, Dublin Castle offers visitors a glimpse of the city’s past, with its grand architecture and breathtaking gardens.
The city is also home to some of the country’s most renowned galleries and museums. The National Gallery of Ireland contains the country’s finest collection of art, while the National Museum of Ireland is the place for those looking to gain an understanding of the country’s history.
Accommodation
Finding accommodation in Dublin can be tricky, as the city is quite popular with tourists. Prices for accommodation in the city vary greatly, depending on the time of year and the location. For budget-minded travellers, we recommend opting for a hostel or Airbnb. If you’re looking for something more luxurious, then there are plenty of hotel chains such as the Hilton and Marriott that offer great discounts during certain months of the year.
For the best deals, be sure to check out the Expedia Dublin Travel Guide, where you can find comprehensive information about flights, accommodation, and car hire in Dublin.
Sightseeing
Dublin is a beautiful city, one that is rich in both history and culture. The city is full of fascinating attractions, ranging from awe-inspiring churches and scenic parks to the lively Temple Bar area. One of the best ways to get to know the city is to take a hop-on-hop-off bus tour, which can take you around all the main sites in the city.
Be sure to check out the beautiful St. Stephen’s Green park, the iconic Ha’Penny Bridge, and the historic Phoenix Park. When in Temple Bar, be sure to stop by the street art gallery, where you can view some of the best street art in the world.
Sports
If you’re an avid sports fan, then Dublin is the place to be. Home to some of the greatest sports teams in the world, including Leinster Rugby and Shamrock Rovers, the city offers a variety of sports events throughout the year.
The most popular sports in Dublin are Gaelic football and hurling, two ancient Irish games. If you’re in the city, be sure to attend a game or two to get the full experience.
Outdoors
Dublin is an incredibly green city, with plenty of parks, gardens and forests to explore. The Phoenix Park is a great place to start, as it contains numerous walking and cycling trails, as well as some of the city’s most majestic trees.
The city is also home to the Dublin Mountains, which can be easily reached by bus. Here, you can go hiking, enjoy stunning views of the city and the Irish Sea, and even go on a mountain biking adventure.
Beaches
For those looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, Dublin’s coastline offers some of the most idyllic beaches in the country. Whether you’re looking for a tranquil getaway, or an energetic beach day, Ireland’s beaches have something for everyone.
Dublin’s most popular beach is Bray Beach, located just a short train ride away from the city centre. Here, you can build sandcastles, explore the rocky cliffs, and even take a dip in the sea.
