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Plan a long weekend in Dublin

By Rachel - Silversurfers Assistant Editor Sep 29, 2015

Ireland’s capital city is bursting at the seams with things to see and do. From its fascinating history and grand Georgian architecture to the lively nightlife and excellent shopping, Dublin has plenty to offer visitors.

Whether you want to trace the steps of Dublin’s famous literary history, escape the city to the rolling hills or perch up next to the bar for a frothy pint of Guinness, Dublin is full of surprises.

Ready to plan your getaway? Here’s all the insider knowledge you need to live like a local on a long weekend in Dublin…

To See

  • For History – Dublin’s rich history comes to life in the city’s many attractions. Start with a stroll through the historic campus at Trinity College– as you do, don’t forget to stop in and see the famous Book of Kells. Next, visit the The Little Museum of Dublin on the edge of St. Stephen’s green. Inside the impressive Georgian building you’ll find a snapshot of 20th century Dublin brought to life through hundreds of photographs and artefacts. If you fancy a look at the grittier side of Dublin, then don’t miss Kilmainham Goal; the former prison once held the country’s most notorious rebels, but today it’s a museum that tells the story of this important chapter in Irish history.
  • For Entertainment – For some lighthearted fun, head over to the famous Guinness brewery. You don’t have to be a stout drinker to enjoy all the Guinness Storehouse has to offer; the interactive tour covers everything from the history of the company to how the beer is brewed. By the time you leave you’ll have a new appreciation for Ireland’s most famous stout along with the secret to pouring the perfect pint.
  • For Shopping – If it’s retail therapy you’re after, head to Grafton Street. This charming road is pedestrianized and lined with a nice mix of high street stores and local boutiques for you to browse and enjoy. If you’re just after a bit of window shopping you can wander the lane and watch the buskers and street performers who also do business here. Walk to the top and you’ll find yourself at St. Stephen’s Green, where some of the city’s most popular attractions are nearby.

To Eat

  • For breakfast – Start the day with a bit of indulgence at the Queen of Tarts on Dublin’s Cows Lane. The restaurant is the brainchild of two sisters, both pastry chefs, who are renowned in the city for the best brownies, scones and cakes in all of Dublin.
  • For lunch – For lunch, explore Dublin’s north side and stop off at Brother Hubbard café. This popular lunch spot is a great place to grab a tasty sandwich and a drink and relax in between attractions.
  • For dinner – Just south of the city centre in Dublin’s trendy Ranelagh neighbourhood is Brioche; the popular restaurant fuses Irish and French cuisines to create a menu full of light tasting plates that are delicious and satisfying without feeling too indulgent.

To Drink

  • For a pint – Temple Bar is the city’s famous pub district and a great place to start if you want to meet the locals and have a drink. The aptly named Temple Bar pub is a good place to start, while nearby favourites like the beloved Bad Bobs or Porterhouse – home to the world’s greatest stout – are also worth a visit.

To Stay  

  • On a budget: Dublin’s Harding Hotel offers clean, comfortable and affordable accommodation in the heart of the city. The pub on the ground floor features a rolling schedule of live music and some great dishes to help you fuel up after a long day.
  • Splashing out: If you’re in the mood for five-star luxury, check out the famous Merrion Hotel. The stunning 18th century townhouse has been transformed into a series of elegant suites in the heart of a city, just a short walk from some of Dublin’s most famous attractions. It’s been voted the best hotel in Dublin by tripadvisor reviewers, and also boasts a beautiful spa where you can pamper yourself after a day of sightseeing.

Have you ever been to Dublin? What are your favourite thing to see and do?

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Rachel - Silversurfers Assistant Editor

Hello there! I’m Rachel and I’m the Assistant Editor for Silversurfers. I work behind the scenes to bring interesting, informative and entertaining subject matter to the Silversurfers community. I hope you enjoy the features we have shared with you. Please feel free to comment below and share your thoughts with us, we love to hear from you!

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