*Free to See!
*Ticket Needed to Tour
Guinness Storehouse*
This famous Guinness stout originated in Dublin in 1749 at Saint James's Gate. What stands in its place now is a seven-story museum dedicated to the creation of Guinness beers. Take in the sights and sounds of all the stages of creating the classic pint, from brewing to advertising. Then head on up to the Gravity Bar where you can master the perfect pour, sip on a complimentary pint, and enjoy a 360 degree view of Dublin.
Tickets are required to gain access to the museum, and can be purchased on site or in advance. All tours of the brewery are self-guided, and can take from 1.5 to 3 hours. Don't have time for a tour? Make sure to snap a photo at the iconic Guinness Storehouse Gate!
Jameson Whiskey Distillery*
If beer isn't your drink of choice, try creating your own concoction at the Jameson Whiskey Distillery. Located on Bow Street in Dublin, the distillery offers tours and classes to visitors. Hop on a guided tour of the distillery and grab a taste of the various whiskeys Jameson has to offer. Or attend a masterclass to learn how to create your own whiskey blend, or just create drink mixes to wow your friends at home.
The Doors of Dublin*
The Doors of Dublin are not a specific tourist attraction, but are more like a scavenger hunt across the city.The colored doors tend to be pretty wide with a half-circle glass window above it. You will see them scattered around the city, leading to apartments, offices, and other buildings as well. Each door is similar in style but unique in color! A lot of these doors can be found around the Saint Stephen's Green area of Dublin.
Snap photos of the various colored doors to see how they compare, and make your very own "Dublin Doors" collage!
Temple Bar*
It might be confusing to find out that Temple Bar is not only the name of a pub, but is also a popular neighborhood in Dublin! The neighborhood is the central hub to Dublin's nightlife, so you will find a copious amount of shops, restaurants, museums, music, and more in this section of the city. While you're in the area make sure to visit the pub of the same name for great food, beer, and daily live music. The small red building sits on, you guessed it, the street called Temple Bar. You really can't miss it.
Book of Kells Exhibition & Trinity College Library*
Located inside the Trinity College Library, the Book of Kells is an illustrated manuscript of the Four Gosepls and the life of Jesus Christ. The book dates back to the 9th century and was most likely used during special masses. The calligraphy and artistry inside the 680 pages of the Book of Kells are so beautifully illustrated and so well-preserved that it is definitely worth a visit to see this ancient manuscript. The exhibit features many other artifacts, including other ancient texts, the Brian Boru Harp, and an original copy of the declaration of independence. The exhibition is open seven days a week, and your ticket includes access to the Long Room, one of the world's most beautiful libraries. All tours are self-guided and last about one hour. If you are unable to book tickets online, they are still available at the door. Just try to arrive earlier in the day to beat the crowds.
Molly Malone Statue*
"Molly Malone" is an Irish folk song that tells the tragic, fictional tale of a female fishmonger who dies young of a fever. The song, also known as "Cockles and Mussels," was adopted as the unofficial anthem of Dublin. The statue pays homage to the song, and is located outside of the Tourist Office on Suffolk Street.
Ha'Penny Bridge*
This pedestrian bridge in Dublin crosses the River Liffey and was originally built in 1816. It originally cost a half penny to cross the bridge in the 20th century, hence the name, but the fee was later dropped. The bridge connects upper and lower Dublin and adds a lot of character to an already charming city.
Dublin Castle**
Located in the heart of the city, Dublin Castle used to be the center of English administration in Ireland, until the Republic of Ireland was formed in 1921. The castle also served many other purposes including serving as the State Treasury, State Mint, House of Parliament, police and army barracks, weapons storage, and even a prison! It is free to roam around the castle and gardens, but guided tours are also available to view the rooms inside the castle.
St. Patrick's Cathedral*
Saint Patrick, for whom the holiday and the cathedral are named for, is known for baptizing thousands of people into Christianity and bringing the religion to Ireland. Construction of the church began in the 1200's, and is now the National Cathedral of the Church of Ireland. The cathedral can be recognized by the 141 foot spire, which makes it one of the tallest churches in Ireland. Since its origin, the cathedral has been home to many historical and spiritual discoveries and is worth a visit. There is a small fee to enter Saint Patrick's, but once inside you can roam on your own or take a free guided tour.
Saint Stephen's Green*
Similar to Central Park in New York City, Saint Stephen's Green is a beautiful public park in the middle of Dublin. The park is adjacent to one of Dublin's most popular shopping centers on Grafton Street, and is a perfect place to rest after a long day of touring.
Kilmainham Gaol*
This jail is a symbol of Ireland's militant history from 1796 all the way through the Irish Civil War in 1922. Leaders from rebellions throughout the years, most famously the leaders of the 1921 rebellion, were imprisoned here. Many of these rebels were also executed inside the jail's walls. The architecture of the building, along with its eerie history, have made the Kilmainham Gaol an intriguing place to visit. Guided tours are the only way to access the jail, and it is highly recommended to book your tour in advance, since it has become a very popular tourist attraction!
The Spire of Dublin*
You cannot miss the Spire of Dublin if you are walking up O'Connell Street, as the 398 foot structure stands tall over the city. The architectural design was a winning entry in a contest to replace a previous monument that was destroyed in 1966. This unique structure can be seen for miles, especially when it is lit up at night.
Christ Church Cathedral*
Christ Church is another beautifully constructed cathedral located in Dublin. Inside the church you will find a stunning congregation center, a medieval crypt with a mysterious history, and many treasures reflecting the political and spiritual history of Ireland. The cost of admission to the church ranges from €7-11, depending on if you choose a guided tour.
National Museum of Ireland*
Ireland's leading museum institution has three branches in Dublin and one in County Mayo. The museums are free to enter and have exhibits about Irish art, culture, natural history, and archaeology.
Dublin Zoo*
A trip to the zoo is a great family-friendly activity once you have tired or touring the historical attractions of the city. The Dublin Zoo opened in 1831 and is one of the oldest zoos in the world. It is located in Phoenix Park, which is twice the size of New York's Central Park, and is home to various species from around the globe. Don't have time to visit? Check out their animal cams to get a sneak peek into the zoo for free online!
National Leprechaun Museum of Ireland*
There might not be any leprechauns at the end of a rainbow, but you can learn all about the mythical creatures at this quirky museum. The museum, which focuses on the Irish folklore, even lets you see what it would be like to be as small as a leprechaun! The museum features various interactive rooms that explains the history of these magical creatures in Ireland.
Irish Whiskey Bar & Museum*
If you didn't get enough history at the Jameson Distillery, hop on over to the Whiskey Museum on Grafton Street. There are five different tours you can choose from including a blending tour and a brunch tour! Or head over to the bar for lunch and enjoy a tasting while overlooking the history gates of Trinity College.
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