Dublin has an abundance of well-known attractions for visitors, but why not take a step away from the 'must-sees' and look for your own unique mix of memories. The city's streets are like a maze of art, design and just plain quirkiness, so turn of your GPS and just wander freely around the city. While everyone knows the craic to be had in Temple Bar, skip the pubs (for now) and stroll up to The Music Centre's Wall of Fame to view the iconic photos of Ireland's best loved rockers from Phil Lynott and Rory Gallagher to Luke Kelly and Bob Geldof.
While there, pop around the corner to one of the city's most endearing vintage shops, Lucy's Lounge. A mix of upcycled and vintage goods fill the basement, and staff love the chance to recommend styles or sizes.
From Temple Bar take a stroll onto George's Street where there now stands a colourful dedication to the seven signatories of the 1916 Proclamation of the Irish Republic with the proclamation printed underneath in five different languages.
Across the road from here stands arguably Dublin's most well-known pub, The George. It's regarded as the lynch-pin of the Dublin gay scene having been in operation for nearly 30 years.
George's Street also hosts the vibrant George's Street Arcade. It is Ireland's first purpose built shopping centre and one of Europe's oldest. The high interior ceiling beautifully complements the exquisite red brick Victorian exterior and this topped off by the unique offering of the shops inside.
If George's Street Arcade doesn't satisfy that inner hipster in you, then head south to Richmond Street to The Bernard Shaw pub. Bordered by eclectic street art and leftover ruined walls of a once neighbouring building, The Bernard Shaw is hard to describe. But it certainly is more than just a pub, it's an experience.
Dublin City's attractions go well beyond those listed on any tourist guide, the city is littered with unique street art and charms if you are just willing to explore.
Here are our Top Attraction Recommendations in Dublin.
Kilmainham Gaol
Opened at the end of the 18th century and closed 130 years afterwards (1796-1924), Kilmainham Gaol Museum has been one of the most famous European prisons. Now a museum, this old jail is an unusual and curious place to visit. The tour guides here are excellent and bring the whole experience to life. Here you will learn about the 1916 Rising, which brought about Ireland's independence and the associated tragedies and execution of the ringleaders and leaders of the Rising. Very highly recommended. It's a good idea to book your tickets in advance especially in high season.
The Little Museum of Dublin
The Little Museum has been awarded the coveted title of most popular museum by TripAdvisor visitors to the capital. This is a very highly recommended visit; its quirky layout and zany tour guides make for a memorable experience following your Fresh Eire Adventure trip in Ireland. The museum explains everything from the visit of Queen Victoria to the global success of U2 and almost everything in between.
National Museum of Ireland
The prestigious National Museum of Ireland is an enlightening place to observe Irish history. The Museum offers an interesting global view of the national archaeology, the decorative arts & history, country life and natural history. Perhaps the most fascinating exhibits are those of the bogs - you will be visiting bogs on your bike tour so here is a golden opportunity to see some of the fascinating finds.
Dublin Writers Museum
Located in Parnell Square, 5 minutes from the city centre, the Dublin Writers Museum is an unmissable classic of Irish literature. It opened in 1991 but is part of an 18th century house. It’s a really charming place where you can learn about Irish writers old and new; from Wilde to Yeats, Synge to Stoker. Writing workshops are frequently held here - advance booking is required. In the basement you'll find one of Dublin's top restaurants, the literary themed Chapter One - treat yourself to a fabulous lunch or perhaps even a pre-theater dinner before or after your visit.
Guinness Brewery
Founded in 1759 and located at St James’s Gate on the river Liffey close to Hueston Station, the Guinness Brewery is probably the most ubiquitous attraction in the country. The Guinness storehouse, which extends over 7 floors, is a marvel of 21st century design. For a complete visit, spend an afternoon at the Brewery, and you will understand how the beer is made from the growth of the finest barley and hops, to the ideal roasting temperatures of the grains. At the end of your visit you will be offered a "dirty pint" of porter in the Gravity Bar from which you can admire the 360-degree view of Dublin. Even the Queen and her husband were tempted to try the Pint o'plain - but they managed to resist.
Science Gallery
The Science Gallery is a scientific museum that offers interactive, visual and exciting experiences. Opened in 2008, this global science gallery network was pioneered by Trinity College of Dublin. Contrary to the majority of science centres, this unusual Science Gallery doesn’t have a permanent collection but rather around five temporary exhibitions each year.
IMMA
The Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA) is housed in the Royal Hospital of Kilmainham, the finest 17th century monument in Ireland. IMMA offers an enjoyable experience of Irish contemporary art by altering its dynamic programme, and frequently including special temporary exhibitions from overseas artists. IMMA is considered as the house of the national collection of modern art.
Light House Cinema
Located in Smithfield Market Square, Dublin 7, the Light House Cinema is a perfect alternative to have a relaxing moment eating popcorn and savouring your drink during the time you will enjoy a new or old favourite movie. Spend the end of an afternoon to appreciate the original and new design atmosphere of the Cinema. All the seats are painted different colours, the décor is stunning and the general architecture is unusual. While their programme typically features independent and art house movies they frequently hold special events – check their programme.
Project Arts Centre
Based in Temple Bar in front of the River Liffey, the Project Arts Centre is (as indicated by its name) a prestigious multidisciplinary arts centre dedicated to support artists through all forms of performing and visual arts. Opened in 1967, the Project Arts Centre its now able to offer diverse programme including all contemporary art forms: theatre, dance, live art, video, film, traditional, jazz, electronic, classical and popular music, painting, sculpture, photography, multidisciplinary installations and performance pieces.
Gallery of Photography
Inaugurated in 1978, the Gallery has become one of the best Irish photography venues. Located in Temple Bar in Dublin 2, this non-profit making Gallery founded by the Arts Council and Dublin Corporation aims to offer a wonderful, touching and original experience. We suggest you to take a look in the Gallery’s boutique; you could be interested by one or two of the numerous great books – “Exit By The Gift Store” as Banksy might say.