The gateway to the Emerald Isle: What you need to know about Dublin

Peregryn travel writers

6 min read

Cityscape at sunset with colorful buildings reflected in a river. A bridge and trees line the street. The sky is overcast with a warm glow.

A city infused with humour and charm aplenty, Dublin is a travel destination with a firm focus on having a good time. With a unique blend of old-world pubs, upscale restaurants, rich history and lush countryside, it offers so much more than the perfect pint of Guinness.

Of course, if you do want a pint, a visit to the Guinness Storehouse is a must do in Dublin, but there is plenty more to draw you to this compact capital.

Home to famed authors James Joyce, Samuel Beckett and Oscar Wilde, Dublin is a city steeped in creativity. You’ll find all manner of cultural treasures such as the 9th-century Book of Kells at Trinity College, as well as gorgeous Georgian architecture that speaks of a storied past.

Best things to do in Dublin city

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Guinness Storehouse

Dublin’s most popular spot, named Europe's Leading Tourist Attraction 2023 at the World Travel Awards, the Guinness Storehouse is an undoubted must-do in Dublin. Take a delicious deep dive into Ireland’s favourite tipple and get the chance to pour the perfect pint of ‘the black stuff’ at the storehouse’s Guinness Academy.

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St Stephen's Green

Dublin’s picturesque city centre park, one of Ireland’s oldest, St Stephen's Green is the perfect place for a picnic in the city centre. Take a stroll through the park’s elegant pathways and leafy gardens, and don’t miss the famous Oscar Wilde statue.

Jameson Distillery

To the west of the city, you’ll find the Jameson Distillery, a monument to Ireland’s most popular whiskey. Take a tour to learn more about the history of the tipple, and head to the Distillery bar for whiskey cocktails including the delectable ‘Choc Orange.

Historic stone building with Gothic architecture and cylindrical tower, bordered by urban street and potted plants, under a cloudy sky.

Dublin Castle

An imposing medieval castle south of Temple Bar and the River Liffey, Dublin Castle is a monument to Ireland’s complicated past. Formerly the British seat of power in Ireland, it was handed over to the Irish in 1922. Don’t miss the Chester Beatty Library with its world-class literature collection in the castle gardens.

Historic stone building under blue sky, people walking in foreground, lush green lawn. Elegant architecture, trees partially frame scene.

Trinity College

Another one of the most historic places in Dublin, Trinity College counts Oscar Wilde, Samuel Beckett and Bram Stoker among its alumni. Wandering around the magnificent grounds gives you a real flavour of the history of Irish creativity and academia.

People walk down a busy, colorful street lined with shops and restaurants, leading to a church with a red door. Bright banners and signs hang above.

Grafton Street

Dublin’s central shopping hub, Grafton Street is one of the city’s busiest areas. You’ll find buzzy bars and cafes, along with buskers belting out Irish classics and, of course, a shop for just about any kind of souvenir.

Dublin’s best neighbourhoods

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There’s so much to see and do in Dublin’s districts, areas that were once separate villages but now make up the city. Each neighbourhood brings something unique and there are so many to explore in Ireland’s capital. Here are some of the best.

City Centre

Dublin’s City Centre is compact and easy to explore on foot. With a slew of major landmarks, including St Stephen’s Green, Grafton Street and Trinity College, it’s the best area to stay in Dublin if you’re only in the city for a short amount of time.

Temple Bar

The colourful area that borders the River Liffey, Temple Bar is home to Dublin’s most famous pubs. You’ll also find plenty of excellent art galleries, quirky little theatres and vintage second-hand shops.

The Liberties

One of the city’s oldest areas, the Liberties was once centred around Dublin’s major whiskey distilleries. Nowadays, it’s blossomed to become a cultural hotspot, with some of the city’s best restaurants complementing the historic pubs in the area.

Smithfield

Dublin’s hippest neighbourhood is home to arty cafes, retro clothing stores and authentic Irish pubs. If you’re looking to experience traditional music, known as Trad to the locals, Smithfield is the place to be.

Phibsborough

Named by Time Out as one of the world’s coolest neighbourhoods, Phibsborough combines old-school charm with modern cool. You’ll find a number of independent cafes, bars and restaurants, as well as some delightfully quirky artisan shops, perfect for picking up a homemade souvenir or two.

Central Northside

North of the River Liffey, this tranquil neighbourhood is brimming with outstanding restaurants and excellent boutique hotels. You’ll also find some of the most historic places in Dublin, including the General Post Office on O’Connell Street – a key landmark in the 1916 Easter Rising.

Ranelagh

This affluent neighbourhood in the south of the city is often overlooked. But Ranelagh’s star is on the rise with the area now hosting some of the hottest restaurants in Dublin, as well as lots of great pubs and cafes.

Great live music spots

Music is an indelible part of Irish culture, so it’s no surprise that Dublin is full of wonderful music venues. Evenings in Dublin are soundtracked by traditional music, known as Trad music to locals. Head to one of the following spots for an unforgettable evening.

Dimly lit pub interior with copper beer taps on a wooden bar, spiral staircase, ornate decor, and rows of bottles on shelves; cozy ambiance.

The Temple Bar

A legendary pub in the heart of Dublin, the Temple Bar hosts live music all day, every day. It’s the cornerstone of the vibrant Temple Bar area. A tourist trap? Yes. Worth popping your head in? Also, yes.

The Auld Dubliner

A short walk from O'Connell Bridge and set several streets south of the banks of the Liffey, the Auld Dubliner has a comforting country pub feel, even though it’s in one of the city’s most buzzing areas. Head here for gentler, more traditional music.

The Cobblestone

One of the city’s best music pubs, the Cobblestone is based in Dublin’s hip Smithfields neighbourhood. Expect rough and ready charm and a heady blend of trad and modern rock covers, as well as some fine Guinness.

Dimly lit, cozy pub interior with wooden bar and stools, vintage decor, framed pictures, neon signs, and a warm, nostalgic ambiance.

O'Donoghue's Pub

Nestled in the northeast corner of St Stephen’s Green, O'Donoghue's does live music like few other Dublin venues. It’s an old haunt of famous folk band The Dubliners, who started their career playing here.

The Brazen Head

The city’s oldest pub, the Brazen Head is one of the most historic places in Dublin. Rustic brick walls and dimly lit lanterns add to the ambience of a place that dates back almost 1,000 years. The name is said to have come from a bronze head at the entrance that locals believed could predict the future.

Where to stay in Dublin

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The Merrion Hotel

Nestled in the heart of the city centre, just south of Merrion Square, the Merrion Hotel is one of the best hotels in Dublin. The design is pure regal, old-world elegance, with antique furniture and extensive Irish art, while the wonderful courtyard garden is one of the hotel's best assets.

Red-brick building entrance with a red carpet and lanterns. A door is open, framed by a wreath with lights. Text: "dylan." Warm evening ambiance.

The Dylan

Tucked away down a tranquil side street near the Grand Canal, the Dylan is a homely boutique hotel that showcases Irish design and hospitality. Tasteful greys and vivid greens complement herringbone tiles, while the rooms include connectivity stations, coffee machines and bathrooms with smart technology.

Elegant lobby with a chandelier, green columns, and floral arrangements. Marble floor with a geometric pattern. Calm, luxurious ambiance.

The Shelbourne

A benchmark hotel located on the northside of St Stephen’s Green, The Shellbourne is famed for its opulence. The hotel’s bar is a venue in and of itself, while the restaurant is renowned for hosting historic afternoon tea events.

Brooks Hotel

Located in the heart of one of Dublin’s most creative quarters, Drury Street, Brooks Hotel is a snug accommodation that brings a friendly, personable atmosphere. Some of Dublin’s best cafes and restaurants are a short walk away.

A modern rooftop restaurant at night, with large glass windows revealing a cozy interior. The city street below is dimly lit with sparse traffic.

The Devlin

Located in an upmarket neighbourhood on the outskirts of Dublin, the Devlin blends 50s-style elegance with modern luxury. An on-site cinema, excellent concierge service and bathrooms with rainforest showers are standout features.

Best restaurants in Dublin

This is a city tailor-made for an excellent gastronomic scene. With incredible natural resources, from the sea to the surrounding countryside, Dublin’s many marvellous establishments serve up a treat.

Dublin’s gourmet scene takes in everything from Michelin-star restaurants and stylish wine bars to old-world eateries and cult street food favourites. Here’s a selection of the finest culinary hotspots in Dublin City.

Bread 41

A bakery cafe that’s one of the leading lights of Dublin’s sourdough revolution, Bread 41 is a favourite with locals and tourists alike. Take a seat at the weekend for an all-day brunch that includes seasonal sourdough with wild mushrooms.

Modern wine bar interior with a marble counter, brown stools, and shelves filled with wine bottles. Warm lighting creates a cozy mood.

Fish Shop

One of the very best Dublin fish and chips, this Smithfield eatery puts an elegant spin on a traditional dish. The Fish Shop serves sustainably sourced hake, haddock, brill and plaice is beer battered and fried to perfection, and paired with vintage wines, sherries and champagnes.

Dimly lit restaurant table set with wine glasses, menus, and flowers in a vase. Wooden chairs and tables create an elegant, cozy ambiance.

Etto

One of the hottest restaurants in Dublin, Etto serves up blissfully simple food cooked to perfection. Try the Cote de boeuf, with a taste and texture that’s out of this world.

Hands hold a cheeseburger over a tray with pickles and sweet potato fries. Ketchup is dipped by another hand. Casual dining scene.

Bunsen

Home of one of the best burgers in Dublin. Opt for the classic cheeseburger with sweet potato fries and enjoy the ambience in what has become an essential street food spot. There are three venues in the city, including the original in Dublin’s buzzing Temple Bar.

Elegant restaurant interior with a brown and white color scheme. Round tables set for dining, plush green seating, and pendant lights. Calm ambiance.

Chapter One

Two Michelin stars demonstrate the amazing culinary experience that awaits at Chapter One, one of, if not the best restaurants in Dublin. Choose the tasting menu and let the chefs take you on a gastronomic adventure.

Modern interior with brown leather seating and black tables against a grid-patterned wall. Soft lighting creates a cozy atmosphere.

Pi Pizza

Dublin’s best pizza restaurant, Pi Pizza is located right in the heart of the city centre. Opt for the signature Nduja pizza, the delicious spicy pork sausage paste that tantalizes the taste buds.

Dublin travel guide: get packing

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A unique city with a personality of its own, Dublin has so much to offer. From the wonderful warmth of the locals and the epic local music scene to the rich history and amazing array of incredible restaurants, this is a city that demands to be explored.

Luckily, it’s compact and easy to explore, with many of the best things to do in Dublin city within a short stroll of one another, making it an ideal city break destination.