The Sights and Tastes of Dublin
Known for its pints and opinionated people, Dublin is a city you can’t help but fall in love with – and fall in love we did. After a weekend stay in the Fair City last month, we came close to unpacking and staying a while. Sure, we hit every spot on the usual beaten path, but at the end of it all, we found that this colorful city is a treasure trove of delightful sights, many of which we had never even heard of.
What to See
There’s so much to see and do in Dublin that we couldn’t possibly fit everything into a weekend trip. But we did manage to hit some of the best spots on the beaten and off-beaten paths.
Not surprisingly, we started our trek with a trip to the Guinness Storehouse, a must-see for every visitor. If the complimentary pint isn’t enough to draw you in, then the 360-degree views at the Gravity Bar will. The interactive tour takes you through the history of this iconic brand.
If you’re in the mood for something a little livelier, head to the medieval Temple Bar district for a true Irish bar experience.
Next on the list is Ha’penny Bridge, built in 1816, which crosses the Liffey. The Four Courts building is nearby on Inns Quay, where the main courts of Ireland can be found. The Christ Church Cathedral, which dates back to 1038, is a short walk from the bridge, and a must-see for lovers of history and architecture.
Speaking of history, don’t miss a visit to Trinity College, where you’ll find the Book of Kells in the college’s famous library. The tome was transcribed by Celtic monks back in 800 AD.
If you’re a lover of art, play a game of scavenger hunting to find all of the city’s statues – there are plenty. They have nicknames, too, like the Molly Malone statue on Suffolk Street, which is known affectionately as “The Tart with the Cart” or the “Dolly with the Trolley” (we much prefer the second name, personally).
Visitors looking to escape the sights and sounds of the city for a while should stop by the Huguenot cemetery, known as one of the most poetic sites in Dublin. The cemetery dates back to 1693 and is dedicated to the Huguenot family, a group of French Protestants who fled France to escape religious persecution.
Where to Eat
Dublin’s dining scene is remarkably diverse. Whether you’re in the mood for classic Irish fare, curry or sushi, you’ll find it all in the heart of the city.
For a great cup of coffee, head to The Bald Barista, a quirky new cafe that serves up more than just coffee. For a quick bite to eat, The Bald Barista offers a wide range of sandwiches and breakfast items.
The Pig’s Ear is a popular joint that has earned a Michelin gourmand bib. The Hairy Lemon Café is a great choice for a hot bowl of Irish stew.
For dessert, head over to The Queen of Tarts or Butlers Chocolates for a steaming cup of hot chocolate.