Rockabill Lighthouse, Skerries
TIME TO REDISCOVER DUBLIN
Think you know Dublin? If you haven’t been to Dublin lately, you are in for some delightful surprises!
Of course, Ireland’s capital city retains all of its old-world charm and history that has attracted visitors time immemorial: Trinity College and Christ Church Cathedral, St. Stephen’s Green and Phoenix Park, Leeson Street and O’Connell Street, Glasnevin and Dublin Castle, Croke Park and the Guinness Factory!
Guinness Storehouse, Dublin
But today there is even more of Dublin to discover and experience, thanks to the city’s relentless ability to reinvent itself and continue to grow.
Try these suggestions the next time you visit.
Jeanie Johnston Tall Ship with the Samuel Beckett Bridge in the background
Start with Dublin’s Docklands. In the past decade this area running along the River Liffey east of the city center has become a showcase for visionary architects, new visitor destinations, a thriving culture and culinary scene with plenty of history to share. The new Dublin Convention Centre, Samuel Beckett Bridge and 3Arena have transformed Dublin’s skyline while the adjacent EPIC Irish Emigration Museum and the Jeanie Johnston famine ship offer a passageway to Ireland’s incredible history.
3Arena Dublin
The Grand Canal Dock is a magnet for water sports, from kayaking and canoeing to wakeboarding. Bord Gáis Energy Theatre, also an architectural gem, offers amazing live performing arts, while the 3Arena presents megastar musicians on world tours.
Dublin's Samual Beckett Bridge and Convention Centre reflected in the River Liffey
For intrepid explorers the Dublin Coastal Trail is a novel way to explore 11 villages running up and down the coast, from Skerries north of Dublin to Killiney south of the city. The views are stunning every step of the way, as you look out from iconic spots like Skerries, Howth, Blackrock and Killiney Hill and soak in the majestic, panoramic views of Ireland’s eastern shores.
Howth Cliff Walk, Howth Head, Co. Dublin
Sustainable travel enthusiasts will find the Dublin Coastal Trail is entirely accessible by rail, bus, bike or by foot. There are plenty of open space to create your own itinerary, and along the way you’ll discover cozy cafes and pubs, water sports, heritage centers, lighthouses and even a few castles.
Sandycove Coast, Co. Dublin
Getting around Dublin and its outer environs is easier than ever. Walking and biking are two popular and inexpensive ways to explore this great city. The DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transit) is a quick and easy way to get around the city and beyond. The DART line runs along the coast of the Irish Sea serving stations from Malahide or Howth in North Dublin to as far south as Greystones in County Wicklow. And finally, get yourself a LEAP Card, which gives you ready access to trains, trams and buses, all at a discounted price.
The Dart follows the curve of Dublin Bay
Click here for more Ireland trip ideas.
ireland.com