Welcome to Dublin
A small capital with a huge reputation, Dublin has a mix of heritage and hedonism that will not disappoint. All you have to do is show up.
Layers of History
Dublin has been in the news since the 9th century, and while traces of its Viking past have been largely washed away, the city is a living museum of its history since then, with medieval castles and cathedrals on display alongside the architectural splendours of its 18th-century heyday, when Dublin was the most handsome Georgian city of the British Empire and a fine reflection of the aspirations of its most privileged citizens. How power was wrested from their hands is another story, and you’ll learn that one in its museums and on its walking tours.
Personality Goes A Long Way
Dubliners will admit theirs isn’t the prettiest city, but will remind you that pretty things are as easy to like as they are to forget…before showing you the showstopper Georgian bits to prove that Dublin has a fine line in sophisticated elegance. True love is demonstrated with brutal unsentimentality round here, but they’ll go soft at the knees when talking about the character and personality of the ‘greatest city in the world, if you ignore all the others’. Garrulous, amiable and witty, Dubliners at their ease are the greatest hosts of all, a charismatic bunch with compelling soul and sociability.
A Few Scoops
Even in these times of green juices and heart-monitoring apps, the pub remains the alpha and omega of social interaction in Dublin. The city’s relationship with alcohol is complex and conflicted but, at its very best, a night out in the pub is the perfect social lubricant and one of the highlights of a visit to Dublin. Every Dubliner has their favourite haunt, from the never-changing traditional pub to whatever new opening is bringing in the beautiful people. With more than 1000 of them spread about the city, you’ll be spoilt for choice.
All the World is Dublin
For as long as it’s been around, Dublin has looked beyond Irish shores for inspiration. Once the second city of the (British) Empire, Dublin has always maintained a pretty cosmopolitan outlook and in the last three decades has conspicuously embraced diversity and multiculturalism. You’ll hear languages and eat foods from all four corners of the globe, and while it used to be said that ‘real’ Dubs had to be born within the canals like their parents and grandparents before them, these days you’re just as likely to meet a Dub whose parents were born in Warsaw, Lagos, Cairo or Beijing.
Events in Dublin
Dublin Travel Guides
Lonely Planet Pocket Dublin
Lonely Planet Pocket Dublin is your passport to the most relevant, up-to-date advice on what to see and skip, and what hidden discoveries await you. Wander the cobbled quadrangles of Trinity College, kick up your heels in Temple Bar, and pour a perfect pint at the Guinness Storehouse; all with your trusted travel companion. Get to the heart of the best of Dublin and begin your journey now!
Lonely Planet Dublin (Travel Guide)
Lonely Planet’s Dublin is your passport to the most relevant, up-to-date advice on what to see and skip, and what hidden discoveries await you. Find your favourite Dublin pub, stroll the quadrangles of Trinity College, and learn about Ireland’s struggle for independence at Kilmainham Gaol – all with your trusted travel companion. Get to the heart of Dublin and begin your journey now!
DK Eyewitness Back Roads Ireland (Travel Guide)
Tour the majestic Ring of Kerry, explore the unspoiled coast north of Dublin, or take in the extraordinary Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland. Packed with insider tips and information, this easy-to-use guide reveals incredible sights, hidden gems and authentic local experiences that can only be discovered by road.
Exploring Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way: A Travel Guide to the West Coast of Ireland
Exploring Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way is essential reading for anyone planning to visit the Atlantic coast of Ireland. Whether looking for ideas for weekend adventures or visiting from abroad you will find everything you need within this guide.