As the capital city of Ireland, Dublin is a place with a very distinct personality. It’s not just the Guinness that's better here – historical landmarks, greenery and great shopping are well worth the trip.
Steeped in history, Dublin has many landmarks, buildings and monuments that date back hundreds of years. Literature fans can walk in the footsteps of classic authors such as Yeats and Joyce at the Abbey Theatre, also known as the National Theatre of Ireland. Regularly staging plays and performances, it’s a great place to visit for a slice of Irish humour. For those who'd rather learn a little more about their surroundings, a visit to the Little Museum of Dublin will do the trick, ushering you into a quirky Georgian house for a half-hour whistle-stop tour of Irish history.
For outdoorsy types, Dublin is as green and lush as you might expect. St Stephen’s Green is a great spot for an afternoon stroll or summer picnic, a quiet bolthole away from the hectic city centre.
That said, if your idea of the perfect outdoor event is shopping, then Dublin won’t disappoint. Offering a good blend of high-street brands and unique local outlets; Grafton Street, in particular, is a shopaholic's paradise that almost demands a holiday booking all to itself. Just be sure to leave enough time for Dublin Zoo - with over 400 animals, it’s a guaranteed hit with the kids.
No trip to Dublin is complete without a stroll down the cobbled streets of Temple Bar. Visit one of the many traditional pubs where you'll find friendly faces and more often than not, live music. To learn more about the famous alcoholic exports you can visit Guinness Storehouse or the Old Jameson Distillery.
Be sure to sample the local food too; like a hearty Irish stew - particularly Dublin Coddle - a sausage, bacon and potato stew. For fresh seafood hunt down Klaw, a tiny casual seafood shack. Choose from the many cafes and pubs serving Irish breakfast, particularly good when served with traditional soda bread.
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