While renowned for its creamy pints of Guinness and buzzing nightlife, the city of Dublin has plenty more to offer other than a wild night out. Though commonly regarded as the best place to visit as a tourist, Temple Bar is best known by locals for its overpriced drinks and cheesy tourist appeal. However, if you wander merely a few streets over, you are bound to discover countless local businesses and historical landmarks. Dublin’s rich culture and history can be found around every cobblestone corner, if you’re looking in the right places. Here’s a few of our suggestions of places to visit for an authentic Irish experience:
1 – MoLI: With over 300 years worth of artefacts, including Copy No.1 of James Joyce’s Ulysess, the Museum of Literature Ireland has plenty of ever-changing exhibitions divulging Ireland’s rich history of writers. Broaden your mind through the museum’s countless immersive installations and discover exactly why Ireland is known as ‘the land of the poets’.
2. Glasnevin Cemetery: Home to Ireland’s most important historical figures like Daniel O’ Connell, Eamon De Valera and Michael Collins, Glasnevin Cemetery is a must-visit for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Irish history. Guided by passionate locals, you are guaranteed to discover facts and folklore straight from the people who know it best. Conveniently located next to the National Botanic Gardens, there’s no better way to enjoy a sunny day in Dublin.
3. Howth Cliff Walk: For those seeking more of an active getaway, Howth Cliff Walk has you covered. Beloved by Dubliners, this cliff walk is famous for its stunning sea views, and ideal for any age group. Take the DART along the coast to Howth, and for 2 hours, take in the serenity of the Irish coastline. Afterwards, wander through Howth Harbour for fish and chips from Beshoff’s, or simply watch the fishing boats come and go.
4. Traditional Music: Traditional music is the heart of Irish culture, and you are guaranteed to hear it bellowing out the doors of most pubs. Sessions are intimate, informal performances, typically in pubs, where anyone can come and listen quietly to the intricate music. Here are a couple of our favourite pubs to do so in: McNeill’s, Capel Street The Cobblestone, Smithfield O’Donoghue’s, Merrion Row The Celt, Talbot Street
5. Live Music: Once you’ve had your fill of the beautiful lilt of Trad music, it’s time to venture towards one of Dublin’s esteemed live music venues. These were integral parts to the rise of many of Ireland’s famous musicians, such as Hozier, Damien Rice, Fontaines DC and plenty more. Our favourite picks are: Whelan’s The Workman’s Club, The Grand Social, The Button Factory
6. Silver Works: Making jewellery has been part of Ireland’s heritage for thousands of years, from Bronze Age goldsmiths to the famous Claddagh ring of Galway. At Silver Works, you can experience that tradition first-hand by creating your own piece of jewellery with guidance from professional goldsmiths. Our Claddagh Ring Workshop is one of the most unique things to do in Dublin, allowing visitors to handcraft one of Ireland’s most iconic symbols of love, loyalty and friendship before taking it home as a souvenir of your trip that you are guaranteed not to find anywhere else.
7. Vintage Tea Trips: Have you ever wanted to explore Dublin city from the comfort of a cozy cafe? Vintage Tea Trips offer a totally unique way to see the city; via a fully restored 1960’s Routemaster bus, and an Irish Afternoon Tea spread. Travel through the city in style, sample an array of snacks and drinks and learn about Dublin’s history from expert guides.
8. The Book of Kells, Trinity College Located in the heart of the city, Trinity College is famous worldwide for its rich history and impressive list of alumni, including Oscar Wilde and Samuel Beckett. Within the campus walls lies the iconic Long Room, home to the Book of Kells, an ancient manuscript that dates back to around 800 AD. The Long Room is often described as one of the most beautiful libraries in the world, and is home to over 4 million books. Explore the grounds with a walking tour, or grab a coffee and see the spectacular architecture of this iconic city college.
9. Phoenix Park Dublin is home to the largest enclosed city park in Europe; Phoenix Park. With over 1,750 acres to explore, you can take a stroll, rent a bike, or even hop on a bus and view the beauty of Irish nature (you might even see some wild deer, famously native to the park). There’s plenty to see within the grounds, including Ashtown Castle, The People’s Gardens and even Áras an Uachtaráin, the residence of the President of Ireland.
10. Kilmainham Gaol Kilmainham Gaol opened in 1796, and has acted as home to countless Irish prisoners, including leaders of Irish rebellions, and the rebels of the Irish War of Independence. The tour is fascinating and haunting, and guided by experts. The Gaol is an essential part of Irish history and a must-see for those seeking a deeper understanding of Irish history.