6 Awesome places to visit in Dublin
In our previous blog we have looked at some mesmerising cities to visit in Ireland, let’s now look at what you can do in each of those cities, starting with the capital- Dublin. As one of Europe’s most historically important cities, Ireland’s capital packs enough art, culture and character to fill a month-long itinerary and still leave you wanting more. Plus, the city’s almost entirely walkable. Despite its wealth and diversity, Dublin retains a small-town feel that never fails to charm visitors. Dublin has so many attractions that it’s sometimes hard to decide what to visit and we at XcelTrip have made it easy for you, with a list of places that you cannot miss on your vacation in Ireland.
Dublin Castle
Built in 1204, Dublin Castle was the seat of power for British rule for over 700 years. In April 1684, a fire ripped through the castle, destroying much of the structure. A stunning Georgian palace was built in its place. Since 1938, all of Ireland’s presidents have been inaugurated in St Patrick’s Hall, one of the many grand State Apartments. The manicured castle gardens are a highlight, with this guided tour explaining their history. The tour also includes an excursion to Dublin’s oldest pub, The Brazen Head. The castle regularly hosts special exhibitions and events, which it advertises on its website.
Christ Church Cathedral
This magnificent cathedral was founded in 1030 as a wooden Viking church. While Romanesque and Gothic elements were added over the next few centuries, the Christ Church Cathedral underwent a major renovation during the Victorian era. This standard ticket is for a self-guided tour of the cathedral crypt (among the largest in the British Isles) and the Treasures of Christ Church exhibition. The Choir of Christ Church Cathedral has been enchanting visitors since 1493. Check the website for the full programme of events.
The Book of Kells
Possibly Ireland’s most important artefact, this remarkable ninth-century manuscript details the four gospels of the life of Jesus Christ in astounding calligraphy. The book’s 340 folios are made from prepared calfskin (vellum). Artists used mineral pigments such as red lead, lapis lazuli and copper to create symbols representing the Four Evangelists: Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. This guided tour leads you into Trinity College Dublin’s Old Library to see the manuscript before everyone else arrives. Afterwards, your guide will take you to tour the grounds of Dublin Castle.
St Patrick’s Cathedral
Legend has it that a well once stood on this site, where Saint Patrick baptised people into Christianity. Today, baptisms still take place in St Patrick’s Cathedral, constructed between 1220 and 1260. Archbishop Luke, the building’s architect, was blind by the time of its completion, so he tragically never saw his idea come to fruition. Famous deans of the cathedral include Jonathan Swift, author of Gulliver’s Travels. His grave is here, as well as a collection of his early works. Visits to the cathedral are self-guided; book your tickets in here.
Abbey Theatre
The Abbey’s cutting-edge shows often tackle controversial subjects, which is unusual for a national state theatre. WB Yeats and dramatist Lady Gregory opened the theatre in 1904, with the manifesto “to bring upon the stage the deeper emotions of Ireland”. It certainly did that. Abbey productions triggered riots in 1907 and 1926. In the second instance, Yeats leapt onto the stage to scold the audience. Things have calmed down these days, but you can still enjoy top-class Irish theatre or a backstage tour.
Jameson Distillery Bow St
Founded in 1780, Jameson makes the biggest-selling Irish whiskey on the planet. Although distilling no longer takes place at this Bow Street building, the slick and interactive tour more than compensates for the lack of working stills. There are videos on the founder, John Jameson, and lab benches showing the progress from barley to bottle. The tour also includes a tasting where you will finally understand the difference between bourbon, scotch and Irish whiskey. Head to the classy downstairs bar for a post-tour cocktail. Whiskey-blending and cocktail-making classes are also available.
Where to stay?
Budget- Times Hostel — Camden Place
Price- 0.00565 BTC per night
Property Location: A stay at Times Hostel — Camden Place places you in the heart of Dublin, within a 10-minute walk of St. Stephen’s Green and St. Patrick’s Cathedral. This hostel is 0.7 mi (1.2 km) from Trinity College and 0.7 mi (1.1 km) from Dublin Castle.
Amenities: Make use of convenient amenities such as complimentary wireless Internet access, a television in a common area, and tour/ticket assistance.
Dining: Quench your thirst with your favorite drink at the bar/lounge. A complimentary buffet breakfast is served daily from 7 AM to 10 AM.
Business, Other Amenities: Featured amenities include a computer station, dry cleaning/laundry services, and a 24-hour front desk.
Luxury- Luttrellstown Castle Resort
Price- 0.59377 BTC per night
Property Location: With a stay at this castle in Dublin (Ongar), you’ll be 12 minutes by car from Blanchardstown Shopping Centre. This 5-star castle is 7.7 mi (12.4 km) from War Memorial Gardens and 8.1 mi (13 km) from Guinness Storehouse.
Amenities: Take advantage of recreation opportunities such as a golf course or take in the view from a terrace and a garden. This castle also features complimentary wireless Internet access, babysitting/childcare (surcharge), and barbecue grills.
Dining: Take advantage of the castle’s room service (during limited hours). A complimentary full breakfast is served daily.
Business, Other Amenities: Featured amenities include dry cleaning/laundry services and a safe deposit box at the front desk. Free self parking is available onsite.
