Dublin, Ireland is one of the most vibrant cities in Europe. It's a city of culture, history, and stunning scenery. From the cobbled streets of the old city to the modern architecture of the new, Dublin has something for everyone. Whether you’re visiting the city for the first time or are a seasoned traveler, there are plenty of places to explore. Here are the top 20 places to see in Dublin, Ireland.
1. Dublin Castle: Located in the heart of the city, Dublin Castle is one of the most important historical sites in Ireland. Built in 1204, the castle was the seat of British power in Ireland until 1922. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction and houses the Chester Beatty Library, which contains some of the world’s most important collections of manuscripts and artifacts.
2. Trinity College: Founded in 1592, Trinity College is one of the oldest universities in the world. The college is home to the famous Book of Kells, an illuminated manuscript from the 9th century. The college also contains the Long Room, a two-story library filled with over 200,000 books.
3. St. Patrick’s Cathedral: Built in 1191, St. Patrick’s Cathedral is the largest church in Ireland. The cathedral is a popular tourist attraction and contains the graves of Jonathan Swift and other famous Irish figures.
4. Guinness Storehouse: The Guinness Storehouse is a must-see for any visitor to Dublin. This seven-story building is located in the heart of the city and contains the world’s largest collection of Guinness memorabilia. Visitors can learn about the history of the famous beer, sample some of the different varieties, and even get a chance to pour their own pint.
5. National Gallery of Ireland: The National Gallery of Ireland is home to some of the most important art collections in the world. The gallery contains works from famous Irish and international artists, including Monet, Picasso, and Rembrandt.
6. Phoenix Park: Phoenix Park is one of the largest urban parks in Europe and is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll. The park is home to many species of wildlife, including deer, swans, and foxes.
7. Dublin Zoo: Dublin Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in the world and is home to over 400 species of animals. Visitors can explore the African Savannah, meet the resident gorillas, and watch the daily sealion show.
8. National Botanic Gardens: The National Botanic Gardens are a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city. The gardens contain over 15,000 species of plants, including rare and endangered species.
9. Kilmainham Gaol: Kilmainham Gaol is a former prison that is now a museum. Visitors can explore the prison cells, see the site of the 1916 Easter Rising, and learn about the history of Irish independence.
10. Dublinia: Dublinia is a living history museum that focuses on the Viking and Medieval history of Dublin. Visitors can explore the Viking village, watch a live Viking re-enactment, and learn about the daily life of the city’s earliest inhabitants.
11. Dublin Writers Museum: The Dublin Writers Museum is dedicated to the literary history of Dublin. The museum contains exhibits on famous Irish authors, including James Joyce, W.B. Yeats, and Oscar Wilde.
12. Jameson Distillery: The Jameson Distillery is a must-see for whiskey lovers. Visitors can take a guided tour of the distillery, sample some of the whiskey, and learn about the history of the famous Irish whiskey.
13. St. Stephen’s Green: St. Stephen’s Green is a beautiful park located in the heart of the city. The park contains many species of plants and trees, as well as a lake and a playground.
14. Dublin Port: Dublin Port is one of the busiest ports in Europe and a great place to watch the ships come and go. Visitors can take a boat tour of the port and learn about the history of the city’s maritime industry.
15. National Museum of Ireland: The National Museum of Ireland is home to some of the most important archaeological and historical artifacts in the world. The museum contains exhibits on Irish history, art, and culture.
16. Chester Beatty Library: The Chester Beatty Library is a museum dedicated to the art and culture of the Islamic world. The library contains a large collection of manuscripts, paintings, and artifacts from the Middle East and Asia.
17. Dublin City Hall: Dublin City Hall is a beautiful building located in the heart of the city. The building is home to the offices of the Lord Mayor of Dublin and contains a large collection of art and artifacts.
18. Dublin Bay: Dublin Bay is a beautiful stretch of coastline located just outside the city. Visitors can take a boat tour of the bay and explore the many islands, including Dalkey Island and Howth Head.
19. Dublin Literary Pub Crawl: The Dublin Literary Pub Crawl is a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can explore some of the city’s most famous pubs and learn about the history of Irish literature.
20. Dublinia: Dublinia is a living history museum that focuses on the Viking and Medieval history of Dublin. Visitors can explore the Viking village, watch a live Viking re-enactment, and learn about the daily life of the city’s earliest inhabitants.