Trinity College

Founded in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth I, Trinity College is the oldest university in Ireland. Traditionally a protestant college, only recently has Catholic attendance increased. The beautiful buildings of the university were home to such great thinkers as Jonathan Swift, Samuel Beckett, and Oscar Wilde in the past. Not to be missed is the beautiful Book of Kells, which dates from the 8th century and is believed to be one of the oldest books in the world. A tour of the university ends in the Colonnades Gallery, where the book is displayed.

Temple Bar

A maze of twisted cobblestone streets, each hiding another lively pub, Temple Bar is Dublin’s cultural center, and the hub of its nightlife. Bordered by the Liffey, the historical streets are overflowing with pubs, theaters, cafes, art galleries, and vibrant shops, while buskers play for coins from wandering spectators.

Ha’penny Bridge

One of the symbols of Dublin, this historical bridge still spans the River Liffey between O’Connell Street and Capel St, and leads right to Temple Bar. While the name has been changed many times over the years, this perfect meeting place was always called Ha’penny by the locals, since it used to cost that much to cross the bridge.

St. Stephens’ Green

A beautiful rambling park with fountains, paths, and majestic trees, St. Stephen’s Green is a perfect place to rest after a day of shopping, or to meet a friend before going out on the town. It’s central location makes it the city’s main park, and sunny days offer splendid people-watching as hundreds flock to enjoy the green spaces.

St. Patrick’s Cathedral

The largest cathedral in Ireland, St. Patrick’s Cathedral was built on the spot where St. Patrick himself was supposed to have baptized followers into the faith. The building dates back to the 12th century, with several restorations. Jonathan Swift was dean here from 1713-1745, and visitors can see his tomb.

Dublin Spire

The tallest sculpture in the world resides in the middle of O’Connell Street, Dublin. A 120 m. tapered metal pole was placed in 2003 with the help of numerous cranes. The spire replaced the statue of British admiral Nelson, which was blown up before the 50 year commemoration of the Easter Uprising.

Customs House

Designed by James Gandon and built between 1781-91, the Custom House is a delight for the eye, rich in architectural detail. Fourteen keystones above the doors and windows, known as the Riverine Heads, represent the Atlantic Ocean and thirteen Irish rivers. The magnificent central dome is topped by a 16 foot statue representing Commerce. Though the inside of the building was completely destroyed by fire during the War of Independence in 1921, it has been masterfully restored and now houses the Department of the Environment.

Dublin Castle

The Dublin Castle, built between 1208 and 1220, is one of the oldest surviving buildings in the city. The seat of English power for seven centuries, the castle was taken over in 1922 by the Irish Free State. Visitors can now see the ancient Norman Tower, while the magnificent 18th century State Apartments are still used for state functions today.

General Post Office

The biggest building on O’Connell Street, the G.P.O. is home to the Irish postal service today, but is best remembered for being the headquarters of the 1916 Rising. While it was mostly destroyed during the fighting, it was rebuilt in 1925, and today offers beautiful Georgian architecture with its massive portico and six columns. Open daily, inside visitors can see paintings commemorating the uprising, a plaque of the “Proclamation of the Irish Republic,” and a statue of the legendary Irish warrior Cuchulainn.

Guinness Brewery

Ireland’s number 1 visitor attraction, the Guinness Storehouse shows visitors the history of the legendary Guinness, beginning over 250 years ago. The tour meanders through the process of brewing as well, and ends with a free tasting and a great view of Dublin. The “Home, Heart and Soul of Guinness,” no visit to Dublin is complete without stopping here.

Kilmainham Gaol

This historical jail is now one of the largest unoccupied gaols in Europe, and covers many events in Ireland’s turbulent history from the 1780s to the 1920s. A fascinating exhibition inside covers the history of the jail and the penal system, and includes an audio-visual tour.

Phoenix Park

This green park is considered the largest urban park in Europe, located just 3 km (2 m) west of the city center. With paths wandering around beautiful landscaped gardens, lush grasslands, and calming lakes, it attracts a number of runners, walkers, and those just looking to relax. A haven from city noise and buzz, the park also houses the Dublin Zoo, and a visitor center with a lively exhibition.