DK Travel : Dublin

One of the most popular capitals in Europe, Dublin is a city steeped in history. Huddled together within a small vicinity you’ll find Viking remains, medieval cathedrals and churches, Georgian squares and excellent museums. But it’s not just about buildings – music, theatre, literature and pubs play just as strong a part in Dublin’s atmosphere. These highlights are the must-sees for any visitor who wants to truly capture the variety and vibrancy of the city.

Anglesea Townhouse

Just 10 minutes’ from the city centre by car, this early 20th-century house has been adapted into a small hotel with seven rooms. The break-fastis superb.
Annie’s Restaurant

Chef-owner Annie Barry uses fresh local produce to create Irish dishes with a European twist. Set in a pretty seaside village, it is very popular, so book ahead.
Aran Fisherman

This harbourside restaurant is certainly the best on the Aran Islands (where there is, admittedly, limited competition). Its seafood, caught the same day, must be the freshest in Ireland.
Ardmore

Modern Ardmore is a popular little beach resort, but the hill behind is the site of St Declan’s 5th-century monastery, probably the oldest in Ireland. Its many evocative remains (mostly dating from the 12th century) include St Declan’s Cathedral, a fine example of a high cross, and an impressive, 30-m (100-ft) round tower.
Ardmore Country House and Restaurant

Using only local produce, this country house restaurant has earned itself renown for its wonderful steaks, lobster and oysters.
Armagh

The city where Queen Macha built her fortress some 3,000 years ago, Armagh has a curious role in Ulster’s religious divide. St Patrick based himself here, and the city is considered the ecclesiastical capital of both communities, with a Catholic and a Protestant cathedral, each dedicated to Patrick. The town also has a good museum and astronomy centre.
Arthur Griffith

Griffith (1871–1922) launched Sinn Fein in 1906 and was elected president of the Dáil in 1922.
Asgard Tavern

An award-winning fishermen’s pub serves a good choice of seafood dishes.
Ashford Castle

This glorious castle is now a 5-star hotel and resort. Facilities include a health club with steam room, sauna and whirlpool. Available on the resort are golf, horse-riding, falconry, cruising and fishing on Lough Corrib.
Athenry

The poignant folksong “The Fields of Athenry” (pronounced Athen-rye) gives little clue about this evocative reminder of the Anglo-Norman colonists. In 1211, Meiler de Bermingham made Athenry his seat, enclosed it with sturdy ramparts, built a little castle, and founded a Dominican Priory in 1241 where he and his descendants could be buried. Today, though damaged, much survives, together with a broken 15th-century cross erected in the central square.

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Restaurant price categories

For a three-course meal for one with half a bottle of wine (or equivalent meal), taxes and extra charges.
- under €25
- €25–€35
- €35–€55
- €55–€70
- over €70
Hotel price categories

For a standard, double room per night (with breakfast if included), taxes, and extra charges.
- under €50
- €50–€100
- €100–€150
- €150–€200
- over €200