The capital of Ireland, the capital of beer. This is Dublin for most tourists in the world. Especially young people love this city very much and make it their favourite holiday place, every year more. A different capital, it is quiet as a country town, elegant as a royal city, joyful – especially at night – as the best tourist location. You cannot miss its musums, buildings, churches, and certainly will never miss visiting its pubs. Perhaps not everyone knows that, but … before being glorified by the colourful American tradition, the festival of spirits – Halloween – was born right here, in Ireland, in the streets of Dublin. What better place to celebrate it at the end of October? Here is what you should know when you decide to plan your trip to Ireland’s capital city.
When to go to Dublin
Summer is the “warmest” season, here, though temperatures will never exceed 20°C. The months of June and July are also the most rainy, so the best period to visit this city perhaps is late spring. Live Dublin in April, May or early June, when cool temperatures and sunny day will be the perfect mix for a tourist stay. But also try it in autumn, when the colours of leaves, autumn fruits and pumpkins too create a brand new magic!
Travel documents
Ireland is part of EU and the Schengen Agreement area. This means you can enter this country by only showing an identity document – passport or identity card from their own country. If you come from a “non-Schengen” nation, you must show a valid passport – up to three months after the date of your arrival. If your country is included in the list of those that need to show a mandatory visa before entering Ireland you shall ask for it in advance.
What to pack for your trip to Dublin
Dublin is a city with cool and rainy temperatures, so – especially if you go in autumn – bring warm clothes, coats and scarves in your suitcase. In summer, a few light clothes and the inevitable jackets will be sufficient, as well as obviously good comfortable shoes for long walks. The umbrella must never be missing! Power adapter and medical insurance are strongly recommended.
How to get to Dublin
Since it is the capital Dublin is perfectly connected to every part of Ireland and to Northern Ireland as well. Two railway stations, the big port and the International Dublin Airport (DUB) make sure you can get to this city with every means at any time. The airport is close to the city and well connected through taxis, buses, private transfers.
How to move through Dublin
Dublin city centre is small and easy to explore on foot. But moving through the city area is as easy, with every means. Only one ticket allows you to go by urban bus, urban tramways and trains. The city train is electric and works like a open air subway. But you can also decide to ride a bike, thanks to rent-a-bike or bike sharing services.
What to see
The main tourist attractions in Dublin are churches, schools and pubs. You cannot miss the beautiful gothic cathedrals, like Christ Church, St Patrick, St Mary, Trinity Church. You must visit the university campus at Trinity College, Royal College and University of Dublin buildings.
At night, let yourselves enjoy the street music, street art, delicious dinners and the unique beer at local pubs. The most famous – and oldest – one is Temple Bar Pub. Also worth the visit, in the city: Guinness Beer Factory, Dublin Castle, the bridges (Ha’Penny, O’Connell) over river Liffey.
What to do and NOT to do in Dublin
What you really must do in Dublin is taste the local beer(s). And do this in a real pub. We suggest you also try the lovely experience of a typical tea-time at one of the city’s cafés or pastry shops. Enjoy a walk along the river and especially across the Ha’Penny Bridge!
What you should never to do in Dublin:
- Never exaggerate with kisses, hugs and especially with the tones of voice; Irish people love discretion even in public!
- Don’t drink in the street, both because it is considered rude here and because there are many excellent places to do so, especially if you drink alcohol.
- Avoid staying out late at night, and avoid certain neighbourhoods (Mountjoy Square, Cork Street, Finglass) where those who exaggerate too much with beer can become very dangerous!