Dublin

31576740382_5b6419083e_z Largest and capitol city of Ireland, this coastal gem is rich in history and culture. It is situated on the mouth of the Liffey river that splits the city. This encourages great walks down it’s banks as you spill into the many neighborhoods and districts of this much loved, Fair City. Each area has its own flare and to truly get to know them can take a few days. If you can manage to stay in Dublin for more than 48 hours, you will be well pleased.

Districts

The Quays Temple Bar

Temple Bar

Here you will find The Icon Factory and other galleries. An area known for it’s night life, there are plenty of day time activities and places to convene. Cafe’s and galleries, and art house cinema at The Irish Film Institute. Don’t miss the Projects Arts Centre or the Gallery of Photography. Of course don’t forget to go to the pub, The Temple Bar, The Palace Bar and The Quays Irish Restaurant. Check out Kehoe’s for the real pub feel.

Best Bars and Pubs in Temple Bar

City Centre

Grafton Street

Between Trinity College and starting with the statue of Molly Malone, goes the winding street of Grafton. Shops of all kinds, the high street if you will, twists through to Saint Stephen’s Green. It’s a colorful contemporary and historical mix of shops and hotels, restaurants and entertainments. Mmmm, Butler’s Chocolate Cafe. Make sure to go off some of the side streets, as there can be some great small restaurants in the area. Look for the George’s Street Arcade for some fun and more affordable spending

Things to do in Grafton

Georgian Dublin

Arbour Hill

Dominated by a cemetery, still a great place to go for a wander. There are 1916 Easter Rising burial sites here and a historic area. Dublin 7.

Dún Laoghair (Lerry)

Seaside town just outside Dublin, great for a coastal stroll. Museums for James Joyce and Maritime are here.

Ballsbridge and Donnybrook, Dublin 4

A quaint, red bricked homes of smaller family type homes of the Dublin type. Exclusive and highly trendy. Great place for restaurants and even a historic graveyard. A short bus trip from the crazy bustle of downtown Dublin, for the quieter and cozier moments. Check the area for some B&Bs or long term rentals to get a feel for a real neighborhood. The Roxford Lodge Hotel is famous in the area. Canals and Liffey side walks.

Food Game

The Chop House

Herbert Park

Rathmines, or Dublin 6

Just south of the city centre, a place where many who first move to Dublin end up, always known by students and artists. It has been gentrified of late and now boasts some great places to eat. Originally a suburb of Dublin, has become one of the places to live in the city with steep rents. Gourmet foods and bars a plenty.

Ranelagh

Close to Rathmines and filled with cafes, bars, and life. Great place for a stroll, grab a lunch at the local cafes and enjoy Dartmouth Square.

Places to Stay, Accommodations

I always find that I want to stay in a place that feels more like what a local would live in. When staying at a city like Dublin, I usually go for a service apartment. Depending on tastes, there are plenty of places to stay, and I usually try to stay near a park or neighborhood district with access to public transportation. You can find many of these in the outer suburbs like Inchicore, closer to Phoenix park. Staying out a bit and hopping the bus can save you money on your rooms and give you some breathing space.