Top Ten Things To Do In Dublin

Visiting the vibrant city of Dublin can be an unforgettable experience. You will enjoy a charming, distinctive cityscape, dotted with beautiful architecture, including inspiring churches and castles.

Today’s Dublin is a heady mixture of past and present, with chic bars and restaurants, a thriving cultural scene, and remnants of Ireland’s colorful history everywhere you look.

We’ve put together a list of the top ten things to do in Dublin, Ireland. We’ve also included some stunning examples of contemporary Irish jewelry that captures the spirit of these attractions. Today’s Irish rings, pendants, and earrings combine ancient Celtic design with modern style elements – much like the city of Dublin itself.

Be sure to take advantage of everything the city has offer on your next visit:

10.) National Botanic Gardens, Glasnevin –

Why not spend a day glorying in the lush foliage and flora of The Emerald Isle, so renowned for its fields of heather and its velvety green hills? These gardens bring the colors and textures of Irish nature to tourists.

Located close to Dublin, a trip to the National Botanic Gardens will be a peaceful excursion, and a chance to connect to the natural world.

9.) Irish Museum Of Modern Art –

The modern Dublin has changed and evolved. You can experience the Dublin of today through its art and sculpture, by paying a visit to the Ireland Museum of Modern Art.

This museum displays a wide array of avant-garde artworks, featuring retrospectives and compilations of work by noted Irish artists, such as Terry Winters.

8.) Guinness Brewery –

Located at St. James Gate in Dublin, this brewery produces one of Ireland’s signature beers, known for its dark color and rich, distinctive barley flavor.

In Ireland, Guinness is often referred to as “the black stuff”. You can enjoy a pint of your own at the on-site bar, after touring the pretty storehouse and retail outlet. This is a fun outing that is an essential part of the Dublin experience.

7.) The Shaw Birthplace (George Bernard Shaw House) –

Legendary Irish author and playwright George Bernard Shaw was born at this house, at 33 Synge Street, Dublin.

You can enjoy a sense of history by touring this building, which features a plaque that reads, “Author of many plays”.

6.) Four Courts –

This historic location is the site of Dublin’s Supreme Court. Built by famed architect James Gandon, who also created the design for the Custom House, a neoclassical structure, also in Dublin.

Touring the Four Courts allows for an overview into the sweeping legal and political changes that have occurred throughout Ireland’s 1000-plus years history.

5.) Bars, Pubs and Restaurants –

No trip to Dublin is complete without a taste of the city’s legendary Irish pubs, bars and restaurants. From the glamorous Temple Bar (you may find Bono here) to the myriad traditional pubs and eating establishments, there is truly something for everyone to enjoy.

4.) The Ha’Penny Bridge (as featured in photo at top of article) –

This 18th century bridge has become a well-known symbol of Ireland. Built to span the lovely River Liffey, it used to cost a ha’penny in toll to cross from one side to the other. This photogenic structure is truly one of Dublin’s most recognizable landmarks.

3.) Trinity College –

The Old Library at Trinity College houses one of the most important art treasures of the Irish people, an illuminated text known as The Book of Kells. This book depicts the Gospels with text and uniquely Celtic illustrations and interlace (knot work) borders. No trip to Dublin is complete without a glimpse of this priceless artifact.

2.) Saint Patrick’s Cathedral –

This stunning landmark was built in 1191, in tribute to Ireland’s patron saint. Beautifully rendered stained glass depictions of saints, shamrocks, and blessings are just one highlight of this truly breathtaking building.

1.) Dublin Castle –

This popular attraction has endured, despite rebellions, fires, and political changes. It stands the test of time. The vast structure has served many purposes during its colorful history – it’s many wings have housed prisoners, vice-regals, and presidents. Today, tourists can experience a taste of Ireland’s past, while enjoying the art and architecture of this stunning castle.