Time Off
Dublin, a beautiful and modern city, has a literary and cultural heritage, second to none. The birthplace of many great writers and poets - Jonathan Swift, James Joyce, Oscar Wilde, W.B.Yates and George Bernard Shaw, to name just a few, it is still home to a number of prestigious modern writers, including Seamus Heaney, winner of the Nobel Literature prize. This literary legacy is reflected in the numerous attractions within the city, with a myriad of museums dedicated to its famous authors and even pub tours that take visitors around their old haunts. Rich in parks, historic sites, theatres, music and comedy venues, there is a wealth of things to do here. Gaelic football and hurling matches are held regularly and provide the ideal opportunity for the uninitiated to learn about these ostensibly national games.
Dublin Attractions
Trinity College and Old Library
Fellows Square, Trinity College, The University of Dublin, Dublin 2
Tel: +353 1608 2308
Founded in 1592, The University of Dublin, Trinity College is one of the most famous educational institutions in the world. Visitors are always welcome at Trinity College, which stands as a self-contained site in the heart of Dublin. It covers some 40 acres of cobbled squares and green spaces, around buildings which represent the accumulated architectural riches of nearly three centuries. Among it's many attractions are the Book of Kells, the Oscar Wilde Center and Samuel Beckett Theater.
National Museum of Ireland
Collins Barracks , Dublin 7
Tel: +353 16777 444
The National Museum of Ireland was opened in 1890 and was the result of the merging together of several Irish Collections. A beautiful and inspiring attraction, the Museum contains artefacts and masterpieces dating from 2000 B.C. to the 20th century.
James Joyce Centre
35 North Great George's Street, Dublin 1
Tel: +353 1878 8547
The life and work of one of Ireland's most celebrated and enigmatic sons is commemorated at this fine museum in the heart of Dublin.
Christ Church Cathedral
Lord Edward Street, Dublin 2
Tel: +353 1677 8099
Christ Church Cathedral is the Church of Ireland Cathedral for the Diocese of Dublin and Glendalough. Its origins date to about 1038 when the Viking settlers constructed a cathedral on this site. The present building dates to 1172 when Archbishop O'Toole and the Norman knight Richard de Clare known as Strongbow initiated the building work. A huge number of visitors visit the church each year for the wonderful example of classic Irish building structure.
Dublin Castle
Dame Street, Dublin 8
The heart of historic Dublin, Dublin Castle is a breathtaking attraction that should be on any visitors must-see list. The State Apartments, Undercroft, Chapel Royal, The Vaults Restaurant and the Heritage Centre and Craft Shop are all open to visitors.
St Patrick's Cathedral
Patrick Street, Dublin 2
St Patrick's Cathedral is traditionally the site of a holy well used by St Patrick for baptisms and a church was established here as early as the late fifth century. Now hight on the Dublin sightseeing agenda, St Patrick's Cathedral is a welcoming Irish stop as well as being a fully-functional place of worship.
Temple Bar
Temple Bar, Dublin
The hub of Dublin's colorful nightlife, Temple Bar is the atmospheric and lively neighbourhood of alcohol, culture, people and history.
Merrion Square
Merrion Square, Dublin 2
This picturesque square right in the heart of Georgian Dublin has been the home of many famous Dubliners. One former resident, Oscar Wilde, is celbrated in the square by a museum.
National Gallery of Ireland
Merrion Square West, Dublin 2
Tel: +353 1661 5133
A huge collection of paintings and sculptures are on offer at the National Gallery of Ireland. The collection spans from the 14th to the 20th centuries and includes all the major Continental Schools. Irish painting is charted from its re-emergence in the 17th century to Jack B. Yeats, Ireland's most important 20th century artist. Admission is free and it is advisable to check the timetables in advance for any special exhibits or shows.
Olympia Theatre
72 Dame Street, Dublin 3
Tel: +353 1677 7744
The Olympia Theatre is a prime venue for big-name musical acts, concerts, plays, sporting events and exhibitions.
Phoenix Park
North Bank of the Liffey, Dublin 8
Completed in 1861 and standing at 205 feet tall, the memorial in the Phoenix park is the tallest obelisk in Europe. I was built to commemorate the victories of the 'Iron Duke', Arthur Wellesley Duke of Wellington who was born in Dublin.