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.

Blarney Castle

It is really the Blarney Stone, believed to have been brought to Ireland during the Crusades, that brings visitors flocking here in their masses. Legend has it that whoever kisses the stone will be given the gift of eloquent speech. The castle itself dates from the mid-15th century and the Banqueting Hall and Great Hall are fine examples of architecture of the period.

Blarney Castle
Blessington and The Lakes

The delightful Georgian village of Blessington is where the beautifully preserved Palladian mansion Russborough House, and its famous Beit Art Collection, is to be found. From here, yet again, there are good views of the mountains while, just south of the village, the River Liffey has been dammed to form a picturesque lake reservoir, popular with Dubliners for picnic outings and water-sports.
Bloomsday

Fans of James Joyce re-enact his novel Ulysses , on the day it is set.
Bog of Allen

Once the largest raised peat bog in Ireland, the bog has been gradually shrinking as it is used for powering the island. It is home to some of Ireland’s most interesting indigenous plants and insects, including the carnivorous sundew plant and bog cotton.
Bohemian Football Club

Located off the tourist beaten track in the working class district of Phibsborough Bohemian FC provides a flavour of the lives of ordinary Dubliners north of the Liffey. Dublin is the heart of football in Ireland & provides three of the country’s biggest clubs: Bohemians, Shamrock & Shelbourne. Bohemians play at Dalymount Park, until 1971 also the home of the national side. The ground is hemmed in by terraced housing & can only be reached by walking down menacing little alleyways. There is one large modern stand, known as the Jodi Stand, the rest of Dalymount is unattractive & decrepit much like Phibsborough itself. Dalymount Park can be reached easily by taking a bus from O’Connell Street. The season runs from march to November, matches are usually played on Friday evenings. Tickets are 20 euros for the Jodi Stand, 15 euros for the Des Kelly & Connaught Street Stands.
Boluisce

This family-run restaurant has earned itself a high reputation for Connemara lamb, Irish beef, and delicious fish from the nearby Atlantic.
Botticelli

Genuine Italian run by Italians. The simple menu has all the old favourites – a good, reasonably priced place for lunch or dinner.
Brasserie Na Mara

A very special restaurant in what used to be the Customs Hall. Lots of space and light with high ceilings and attractive decor. The seafood menu is delicious.
Brazen Head

This pub, in the heart of Viking Dublin, is the oldest in the city. The building dates from the 1750s, but some believe there has been a tavern on this site since before the Norman invasion in 1172. The courtyard is a lovely spot for trying out one of the best pints of Guinness in Dublin and listening to traditional music.
Break for the Border

If you tried to break for the border in this chain bar, you’d not get very far – on a Friday or Saturday night the crowds’ gravity is sure to hold you in. Even in a club this size there are still queues and often standing room only. But then this is still a top spot and considered by many the place in town to be.

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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