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Dublin

Dublin through its history: pubs, literature and walks along the Liffey

October 20, 2026 · Streetly

Dublin

Dublin is a compact, literary and very sociable city. Here is what to see, how to skip the queues and where to enjoy a good pint or a good plate like the locals do.

The essentials without the queues

Trinity College and its library with the Book of Kells are a must; book ahead and go first thing. Dublin Castle and St Patrick's Cathedral are close by. Kilmainham Gaol, tied closely to Irish history, is also worth reserving in advance.

Walks, parks and views

Cross the Ha'penny Bridge over the Liffey and stroll through St Stephen's Green. Phoenix Park, one of Europe's largest urban parks, is ideal for escaping the noise. Grafton Street is the shopping spine, while Temple Bar is livelier than it is authentic.

Eating and drinking like a Dubliner

A pint of Guinness in a traditional pub is almost compulsory; look for ones with live music. Try Irish stew, soda bread and fish and chips. The Guinness Storehouse is very popular, so book a time slot; for the local atmosphere, head to neighbourhood pubs.

See food tours in Dublin ›

Neighbourhoods and transport

The Liberties, with its brewing and distilling heritage, is a neighbourhood full of character, and Smithfield is home to the Jameson distillery. For a day trip, the DART train reaches Howth or Dalkey quickly. The centre is walkable; the Leap card simplifies public transport.

Sample 3-day route

A starting point for your trip; in Streetly you can adjust days, pace and interests and get your own version with a map.

  1. Day 1Trinity College → Grafton Street → St Stephen's Green → St Patrick's Cathedral
  2. Day 2Dublin Castle → Ha'penny Bridge → Temple Bar → Jameson Distillery in Smithfield
  3. Day 3Kilmainham Gaol → Guinness Storehouse → The Liberties → Phoenix Park
  4. Optional extraDART → Howth or Dalkey

Practical tips

  • Book the Book of Kells, Kilmainham and the Guinness Storehouse in advance.
  • Bring a rain jacket: the weather can change several times a day.
  • In pubs you order and pay at the bar.
  • A Leap card saves you fumbling for change on public transport.

Opening hours, prices and rules change. Always check official sources before you travel.

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