Dublin holidays

Ireland is known for its rolling green countryside, and Dublin celebrates this in its many parks and open spaces. Make the most of this on a trip to Dublin by visiting Phoenix Park, one of the largest enclosed parks in Europe. St Stephen's Green and the Irish National War Memorial Gardens are also great spots to relax in nature.

Certain streets in the Temple Bar area are home to a community-led art initiative called The Icon Walk. This outdoor artwork tells the stories of influential people from across Ireland, including musicians, sports stars and, of course, poets. To save time on your vacation to Dublin, stop at The Icon Factory and grab a map before making your way through this colorful labyrinth of art.

Originally a Viking settlement and then the seat of English rule for 700 years, Dublin Castle now stands as a symbol of Irish history and heritage. When you’ve done the castle tour, wander across the road to the Chester Beatty library to explore some art history and to discover the rooftop garden.

Temple Bar is bursting with traditional Irish pubs offering live music and great people-watching. It’s the best neighborhood to stay in Dublin if you want to be in the heart of the city’s nightlife and cultural quarter. Check out galleries such as the National Photographic Archive and dine at award-winning restaurant Uno Mas, along with other great restaurants serving local pub food.

Good for: Nightlife, culture, restaurants

The best area to stay in Dublin if you love a little intellectual grandeur, this neighborhood centers around Trinity College, Ireland's oldest university. Stroll through its historic cobblestoned campus and admire the Georgian architecture. Don’t miss the iconic Book of Kells housed in the majestic Old Library. The Trinity College lawn is a tranquil spot favored by students for a study break.

Good for: Architecture, green space, campus life

Dubliners call this area the ‘Silicon Docks’ due to the bustling tech scene, but it’s certainly not without culture or dining hot spots. If you’re interested in performing arts, this is the best neighborhood to stay in Dublin to see a show at the Bord Gais Energy Theatre. EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum and the National Gallery of Ireland can also be found here.

Good for: Restaurants, theater, museums

On a budget? Don’t let that put you off, as there are many free things to do in Dublin. All the government-run museums in Dublin are free; try the National Museum of Ireland-Natural History or the National Gallery of Ireland for starters. Stroll across the grand old Ha’penny Bridge and join one of the many free walking tours.

Whether it’s for a brisk winter walk or a sunny picnic, Dubliners love to spend time at the beach. There are plenty of beaches in Dublin to choose from. Sandymount Strand is the closest to the city center, and Portmarnock Beach is sheltered and lovely for paddling in. Killiney Beach and the Howth Cliff Walk boast gorgeous coastal trails and cliffs.

Grafton Street is the city’s high-end shopping district, while Temple Bar is the place for handmade jewelry, artwork and vintage clothes. Shopping in Dublin would not be complete without a visit to the Aran Sweater Market, known for high-quality woolen clothing. They will ship goods directly to your home, so you can save room in your suitcase.

Dublin is undoubtedly a cultural capital, with countless museums, galleries and historical landmarks. Visit the Guinness Storehouse, which is all about the art of brewing Ireland's most famous export. Other museums in Dublin worth visiting include the National Museum of Ireland, the Museum of Literature Ireland and the Little Museum of Dublin, which is housed inside a stunning Georgian townhouse.

Whether it’s a hearty Irish dinner you’re after or world-renowned haute cuisine, Dublin will deliver. One of the best restaurants in Dublin is L. Mulligan Grocer, an award-winning gastro pub that serves farm-to-table ingredients. Michelin-starred Chapter One offers a high-class dining experience, while Temple Bar Food Market on a Saturday has a low-key vibe with local vendors from around Ireland.

Known for its lively pub culture and nightlife, Dublin always offers something tempting to do after dark. Temple Bar is a locally loved hot spot whether you prefer to catch some live music or go clubbing. More nightlife in Dublin can be found around O’Connell Street and Harcourt Street, where there are trendy nightclubs and rooftop bars – such as Sophie’s – with fab city views.