DUBLIN: INVITING | MEDIEVAL | MODERN
Originally founded as a Viking settlement, Dublin is a wonderful blend of modern and medieval with first class restaurants, cozy pubs, and friendly people. It is a city that has inspired writers, poets, and artists with its historic landmarks dating back hundreds of years. Lively music fills the bustling streets while tranquil green parks provide a peaceful retreat from the surrounding city. Designated as a UNESCO City of Literature, its thriving art and theatre scene adds an element of cultural refinement in this country known affectionately as the ‘The Emerald Isle’.
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BEFORE YOU GO
GETTING AROUND
Many commercial airlines fly into Dublin Airport as well as a number of luxury private jet companies such as Private Sky or Westair. Ireland’s flagship carrier is Aer Lingus.
Dublin itself is compact and ideal for walking. You can also phone ahead for a taxi or take a public bus, bicycle, or hop on the light rail tram system, Luas. Avoid driving in the city if possible. The streets can be congested and parking is notoriously difficult.
Outside of Dublin, the best ways to travel around the country are either by car or by DART, Dublin’s Area Rapid Transit. Ask your hotel to help arrange for a chauffeur or to rent a car at the airport. If you decide to take a taxi, make sure you call ahead. Your hotel can also help you make arrangements.
STAY
Whether you favor fairytale castles or charming country homes, prepare to choose from a selection of luxurious accommodations.
Conrad Hotel
Dylan Hotel
InterContinental Hotel
The Clarence
The Fitzwilliam Hotel
The Marker Hotel
The Merrion
The Shelbourne
The Westbury Hotel
The Westin
EAT
Irish cuisine is making a comeback with first-rate restaurants creating dishes using traditional foods, with a modern twist. You can be sure to see local delicacies such as the potato-based boxty or traditional black pudding creatively incorporated into menus.
Other authentic foods to try include classic Irish stew with tender meat, potatoes, and onions; native Shellfish dishes from plump oysters to savory prawns; and the ever-present Irish soda bread.
Enjoy an exceptional meal at these Michelin-star restaurants.
Chapter One Restaurant
L'Ecrivain Restaurant
Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud
The Greenhouse
DRINKS
Dublin has a vibrant nightlife. The city has a good selection of sophisticated wine and cocktail bars, trendy speakeasies, and traditional cozy pubs.
Ireland is well-known for producing some of the world's finest single malt, single grain and blended whiskeys. If you’re in the mood for something a little sweeter, an Irish liqueur cream may be the drink for you. Don’t leave without trying one of the country’s popular dark, dry stouts or malt-flavored red ales.
Here is a list of our favorite locations where you can raise a glass to the Irish nightlife.
ely Wine Bar
Fallon & Byrne
John Kavanagh (Gravediggers)
Kehoe’s
Sophie’s
The Bernard Shaw
The Black Sheep
The Blind Pig
The Liquor Rooms
The Temple Bar
Vintage Cocktail Club
SEE & DO
There is a lot to experience - both in Dublin and outside of the city. The city itself has historic landmarks such as St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Trinity College, and is a designated UNESCO City of Literature.
Take time to explore these sites during your visit:
Bord Gáis Energy Theatre
Christ Church Cathedral
Irish Whiskey Museum
Kilmainham Gaol
National Museum of Ireland
Old Jameson Distillery
Olympia Theatre
Powerscourt House and Gardens
Spire & GPO
St. Patrick’s Cathedral
St. Patrick’s Day Festival
Outside the city, there are a number of well-preserved medieval castles and elegant gardens where you can spend the day. The dramatic Cliffs of Moher and Killarney National Park are popular natural attractions that shouldn’t be missed.
Below is a list of destinations that are easy to reach and showcase more of Ireland's beauty.
Aran Islands
Blarney Castle & Gardens
Brú na Bóinne – UNESCO
Bunratty Castle & Folk Park
Cliffs of Moher
Cork City and Gaol
Dingle Peninsula
Killarney National Park
Ring of Kerry
Shop Street, Galway
The Burren National Park
The English Market
The Rock of Cashel
SPA
Find serenity in the heart of central Dublin with unique and creative spa treatments. Seaweed handpicked from the coastal town of Sligo is incorporated into rejuvenating, hot baths. Massages using gently warmed volcanic stones create a feeling of warmth and relaxation. Heated and chilled lava shells are used to create a nurturing and healing treatment not found anywhere else in the world.
ESPA, Powerscourt Hotel
K Spa, The K Club
Spa at The Marker Hotel
Tethra, The Merrion
The Spa, The Shelbourne
SHOP
Stroll down Grafton Street in Dublin for a variety of stores, café’s, bars, and restaurants catering to the high-end clientele. Explore the many options of Waterford Crystal or Belleek China. Visit a jewelry store to find the perfect Claddagh ring. Don’t forget to pick up a premiere Irish whiskey or a bottle of original Bailey’s Irish Cream.
Aran Island Sweaters
Avoca Handweavers
Beer – Guinness, Murphy’s
Belleek China
Claddagh rings
Baileys Cream Liqueur
George's Street Arcade
Grafton Street
Henry Street
Irish Tea
Whiskey – Jameson, Bushmills, Kilbeggan
Shop Street, Galway – Day Trip
Waterford Crystal