Sightseeing in Dublin and which accommodation to choose
Dublin is a spirited city, full of colour and spirit in its history, cuisine and traditions. With Its famous nightlife, the typical Irish cozy, museums imposing, and restaurants creative and as for the Guinness, there is no better taste. The blend of cultures derives from the Vikings, English invaders, sailors, traders and writers who established themselves here. Dublin’s rich heritage embraces Celtic myths and legends, a Georgian past and new trends and traditions donated by the lively youth of Dublin.
Dublin is a fashionable capital and destination with tourists from outside of Ireland and natives, known for its laid back and genuine attitude. The Irish people are famous for being sociable and friendly, and most enjoy any opportunity for a dance, a song and a beer. The city centre itself is full of historical Dublin hotels close to the small smoky Irish bars where you can sit sipping a Guinness and listen to traditional folk music along with the Dubliners. You will have a good time saying “Slainte” at any local pub, but do not be surprised if you suddenly find yourself pulled up and made to do a little dance! Along with the local pubs are an excellent number of bars and pubs tightly bunched together, especially along the banks of the river and in the cobbled streets of Temple Bar. This area of Dublin has everything: hotels, art galleries, oddity shops, museums and performing street entertainers. It is a lively and interesting place to pass the time. Many established hotels are within easy reach of Temple area. If you do not want to sleep or need to sober up, there are many new coffee houses opening up where you can experience a real Irish coffee.
The city itself is quite flat and if staying at a typical Irish hotel in the city centre then you will be within walking distance of most of Dublin's attractions, shopping areas, bars and restaurants. It is relatively simple to get your bearings, just use the river as a pointer as to where you are. Some of the major tourist attractions not to miss include The National Gallery of Ireland, Dublin’s Writers Museum with letters, notes and personal items from the likes of Behan, Stoker and W.B. Yeats, and the James Joyce Museum. Lovers of architecture should head to Merrion Square, laid out between 1762 and 1764, a superb example of Georgian Architecture and the ideal place to immerse yourself in Dublin's history. Take a walk over Dublin’s most famous bridge, The Ha'penny, and onto Trinity College where former students include Samuel Beckett, Jonathan Swift and Oscar Wilde and the Book of Kells in The Old Library.
The political history of Dublin is just as fascinating, across the river in the northern half of Dublin, make your way to O’Connell Street, and up to the city’s most political monument, the General Post Office. On Easter Day 1916, Patrick Pearse stood on its steps to read a proclamation declaring a free Irish Republic. It is possible to put your fingertips into the bullet holes that riddle the columns and the façade. Alternatively, take a guided tour of Ireland's most famous disused prison, Kilmainham Gaol. When open it held many famous prisoners, including the leaders of the 1916 Easter Rising, executed here. In addition, here in the northern half of the city are several cheap hotels where you can stay.
Within a short distance from Dublin city are the Wicklow Mountains, full of beautiful lakes and reservoirs, especially beautiful in the winter months with the tops covered in snow. If you have the energy then it is possible to walk along the Wicklow Way, breathe in the pure fresh air and captivated by the stunning views. Alternatively, visit Glendalough, in the heart of the mountains national park and one of the most important sites of monastic ruins in Ireland.
Ensure you book your accommodation in Dublin before you arrive as the city is a popular destination and the better hotels in Dublin can be booked up quickly, especially if you are intending to visit at the weekend or in a holiday season. There is a range of typical Irish accommodation in the city, from quality hotels and holiday villas to bed and breakfast, youth hostels and the cheaper hotels if your budget is limited. Everyone who visits Dublin comes away with a story to tell. It is a city that lives up to its reputation and do not be surprised to find yourself caught up in its energy and rhythm. Slainte!!
