Ireland is a small country with so many natural jewels that you can spend as long as you like and never get bored. Continue reading to find out the best places to stay in Dublin, what to explore and where to eat!
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Dublin is a charming city with energetic streets and history around every corner. But, of course, pubs play an important role in Irish life, and you can find thousands in the city. Guinness also plays a vital role in the city, and a visit to the Guinness storehouse is fascinating. The museum is interactive, and the ticket includes a drink in the Gravity Bar, where you can enjoy Guinness (which is an art in itself) with a view of the city skyline.
Outside of Dublin are lovely villages and spectacular landscapes. One of the most famous spots to visit is the Cliffs of Moher, a stunning natural treasure. I lost all sense of time sitting on a cliffs’ edge in this place while taking in the horizon and breathtaking views. Walking the hill is a peaceful experience, and I can assure you that the area is magic. If you go during May or June, you might have the chance to witness the birds living in the cliffs: the Atlantic Puffins. Tip: you’ll see more birds on an early morning visit.
What to see in Dublin
Dublin is a relatively small city, and walking to points of interest is easy. Your tour should include a visit to the beautiful and historic Trinity College (the oldest college in Ireland), St. Patrick’s Cathedral, the Dublin Castle and the Chester Beatty Library, one of the most interesting museums hosting rare books and some other precious pieces in the paper.
Among the best things you can do in Dublin is enjoy the medieval streets surrounding Temple Bar and stop at one of its emblematic pubs to sip a drink while listening to live music. The cobblestone streets cover a traditional area where it’s easy to stroll and enjoy every corner, every building and… please don’t enjoy every pub! But, seriously it’s the most famous place in Dublin because it is has a great atmosphere, especially after work.
Take some time to walk towards Grafton St., do some shopping or walk on the pedestrian street while checking out street musicians and actors on your way to Saint Stephen’s Green Park. The park is a haven of peace.
The Liffey River divides the city and is home to some of Dublin’s most important points of interest, such as the Custom House, the Ha’Penny Bridge, and the Guinness Brewery. If you follow the river further beyond the historic centre, you’ll find another point of interest: the Docklands. In this area, you’ll find a more modern Dublin where lots of fantastic restaurants and shops are opening. It’s a revitalised neighbourhood where art galleries, new architecture, old buildings and river trips blend. It’s the ideal place to stroll and enjoy a less touristic area in the city. One of our favourite places in this neighbourhood is The Chq Building. Overlooking the Liffey River and George’s Dock, this building has been perfectly restored, and it’s a great visit on its own. The Chq Building used to be a wine and tobacco warehouse and is currently home to restaurants, bars, cafés, art galleries and several events during the year. The only bar & brasserie is unique because it’s located in the original converted cellars.
Best places to stay in Dublin – Temple Bar
Merrion Hotel: one of our favourite places to stay in Dublin! The hotel is the epitome of relaxed grandeur and is one of the most luxurious hotels in Dublin. The Merrion Hotel is in a beautifully restored 18th-century building. As recommended in the “Where to eat in Dublin” section, the hotel is also heaven for foodies because it’s home to the 2-star Michelin Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud. Have a drink in the garden after dinner.
Morrison Hotel: located on the bank of the river Liffey and close to the Millennium Bridge, this luxurious hotel is within walking distance of Temple Bar, allowing you to enjoy the happening nightlife of the vibrant street.
Temple Bar Hotel: they have friendly staff that will help you with everything you need. If you stay in this hotel, you will be able to walk to every point of interest in Dublin.
Best places to stay in Dublin – Trinity College Neighbourhood
O Callaghan Alexander Hotel: in one of the most iconic corners of Dublin and surrounded by gorgeous Georgian houses, you’ll find the O Callaghan Alexander Hotel.
Dylan Hotel Dublin: this boutique hotel has an impeccable decoration. It is located on a beautiful Victorian Street in one of the most sophisticated neighbourhoods in Dublin. Staying at the Dylan Hotel puts you close to shopping, restaurants and several points of interest in the city.
The Westin Hotel: Just in front of Trinity College, the Westin Dublin Hotel is luxurious. The service is excellent as it always is in the Westin Collection. In addition, the Westin offers an incomparable frame. The hotel occupies a historic building from the 1800s that previously was used as the robe supplier to Trinity College Dublin and afterwards as offices of the insurance and financial companies of the late 1800s.
Best places to stay in Dublin – Docklands
The Marker Hotel Dublin: they say The Marker Hotel is the perfect urban retreat for those who crave the unconventional. The hotel is modern, urban and has a great rooftop bar for a cocktail after your sightseeing day. The infinity pool is another great spot in this fantastic hotel.
Where to eat in Dublin
We enjoyed some delicious meals in Dublin. New restaurants have brought renewed classics of traditional Irish food to the scene.
The Fumbally Café (Fumbally Lane, Dublin 8): This eclectic deco café is airy and modern, offers fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and is especially good for sandwiches. They serve fresh, healthy food in a relaxed atmosphere.
Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud (Merrion Hotel): If you are looking for a more elegant and fancy dinner, we recommend you visit this legendary restaurant. With two Michelin stars, we are sure that you’ll have here the gourmet experience you are looking for, contemporary cuisine with traditional Irish roots.
Gallaghers Boxty House (20-21 Temple Bar): here, we had one of our favourite meals in Ireland. Located in the centre of Temple Bar, they have a modern concept of traditional food in a casual atmosphere. At Boxty House, they use natural ingredients and artisans food producers. We had the boxty lamb, and it was truly delicious!
Queen of Tarts (Cow’s Ln, Dublin 2): this is a classic, and you won’t be disappointed with any of the suggestions. As its name points out, the tarts are delicious!
Leo Burdock: Fish and chips is a British classic, and you can’t leave Dublin without trying them. You can eat standing or can take it away. As you might have guessed, it’s nothing light, but it’s so tasty and totally worth it. You can find out about other shops here.
Now that you are aware of the best places to stay in Dublin and where you can find the most delicious local cuisine, what do you think, isn’t it worth a visit?
