Discover Dublin - The Heart of Ireland

1. main areas in dublin

Temple Bar area

With the River Liffey to the north, Trinity College on its eastern edge and St. Stephen's Green just south, this bustling neighbourhood is the tourist hub of Dublin. Here you can choose from a variety of lively bars with live music every day, feel at home with the friendly, welcoming locals and have an unforgettable time day or night.

St. Stephen's Green Park

This central park south of Temple Bar is Dublin's "green lung." On sunny days, it comes alive with office workers munching on sandwiches while students leisurely enjoy picnics. St. Stephen's Green is surrounded by stately buildings, along with numerous classic hotels and restaurants.

Trinity College

Founded by Queen Elizabeth I in 1592, it is Ireland’s only university to make the top 100 in the world and the beating heart of Dublin’s literary scene. Stroll through its grounds and you can imagine the likes of Oscar Wilde and Jonathan Swift, Edmund Burke and Bram Stoker, all strolling through the grounds.

2. City highlights

Walking around Trinity College

This is a must-see. Some first-time visitors to Dublin find it lacking the immediate visual appeal of Edinburgh or Bath. But if you take the time to wander around Trinity College and soak up its literary scene, you’ll find the city just as enchanting. Don’t miss the Long Room in the Old Library, where 200,000 books line the shelves. And for a small admission fee, you can visit the exhibitionBook of Kells(The Book of Kells).

Visit the EPIC Irish Emigration Museum

Located near the River Liffey, this impressive museum sheds light on the “hidden” side of Irish immigration. With interactive exhibits, it encourages both children and adults to learn about key events in Irish history and the development of the city.

Visit bars chosen as literary settings

In Dublin, literature and pub culture are closely linked, with many bars serving as the setting for literary works. Fans of the great writer James Joyce (author of novelsDublin, UlyssesandPortrait of the Artist) is probably no stranger to the Davy Byrnes pub, which appears in chapter 8 of the work.Ulysses. And for those who love the poet and satirist Jonathan Swift (author of the famous workGulliver's Travels), or author Bram Stoker of the famous horror novelDracula, then bars like Brazen Head and Toners are respectively must-visit destinations.

Explore Powerscourt Estate

Head out of the city centre to find one of Europe’s grandest homes. This magnificent estate boasts an English garden with Japanese Zen architecture, a charming cafe and a full-service hotel in case you want to stay a few days.

3. best hotels in dublin

Most hotels are scattered around the city centre or along the banks of the River Liffey, with the largest concentration around St. Stephen's Green. Among them is the five-star Westbury, a magnificent oasis of true luxury and uncompromising service.

If you want to stay in a more youthful and creative space, The Dean is the ideal place to stay. This hotel has bold, modern design and enthusiastic staff.

The Powerscourt Hotel, located on the estate of the same name, is also a great luxury hotel. You can enjoy fine dining, fine champagne and stunning mountain views from the comfort of your room.

4. What to eat in Dublin?

Guinness fans should visit the Guinness Storehouse Dublin, which offers a fascinating experience that goes beyond the simple brewing process. You can also pour yourself a pint and enjoy it at the Gravity Bar, located above the Guinness Storehouse, which offers panoramic views of the city. The Irish Whiskey Museum is a must-see for those who want to learn more about the famous whiskey.

Dublin now has a number of high-end restaurants that have been awarded the prestigious Michelin star thanks to the creativity and innovation of young chefs in Irish cuisine. For example, Greenhouse restaurant with attractive 5-course menu at affordable prices combined by chef Mickael Viljanen in a wonderful space.

Amid the influx of new eateries, Balfes is a standout, with unique starters like Castletownbere crab with butter and Granny Smith apple, and main courses of Josper-grilled meat and fish. Dublin boasts a range of mouthwatering steakhouses, and Cleaver East is one of them.

5. Dublin Discovery Tour

Day 1

- Check into a hotel, choose one that suits your needs and stays close to the centre so you can easily explore Dublin's highlights.

- After checking in, you can spend the afternoon strolling along the famous River Liffey and visiting some of the city's grandest buildings.

- In the evening, head to Temple Bar and pick any bar you like. Order a pint of Guinness because Guinness in Ireland is always better than anywhere else, and don't rush the bar staff. Your Guinness will be ready when it's ready. Then, order a starter of Irish stew and you've got a taste of everyday Dublin life.

Day 2

- In the morning, head to the National Gallery of Ireland to explore the country through some of the finest works by artists such as Caravaggio, Velazquez and Vermeer, and admire paintings by artist Jack B Yeats, brother of poet WB Yeats.

- Lunch at celebrity chef Dylan McGrath's Fade Street Social. Try the flatbread (served with beef fillet, arugula and truffle) or the chateaubriand steak.

- After a hearty lunch and a rest, go shopping at the Design Center, where you can find unique designs from local and international designers.

- After shopping, stop by Bowes Pub for a whisky. With a comfortable, cozy space, a fun atmosphere and quality whisky, you will definitely not want to leave.

Day 3

- Have a late breakfast at Meet Me In The Morning. Come here before 3:30 pm and you can enjoy strong, delicious coffee and healthy food that is ideal for a light meal. They also have a variety of donuts that are mouthwatering, such as orange curd or vanilla ice cream.

- Take the DART train to the relaxing fishing suburb of Howth, and enjoy a Guinness aperitif with fresh oysters at one of the seafood restaurants lining the bustling harbour.

- If oysters aren't enough, treat yourself to a seafood feast. Call Aqua in Howth to catch the lobsters and reserve a window seat.

Hai Anh