Why Go to Dublin
YOUR DESTINATION AT A GLANCE
Dublin is a city of storytellers, music and warm welcomes. Ireland's capital and largest city proudly holds onto its traditions, from great literature and folklore to traditional music and dance, and of course a perfectly poured pint of Guinness. At the same time, it's a modern, international city, and newcomers from around the world have helped create a diverse and exciting food scene.
You'll find the old and the new side by side. See the ancient Book of Kells at Trinity College, tour the Guinness Storehouse and enjoy the view from its rooftop bar, and explore Dublin Castle and the Kilmainham Gaol. Walk in the footsteps of James Joyce and other literary greats, then spend the evening in a cozy pub in Temple Bar or beyond, listening to live traditional music. History and a little bit of fun mix on nearly every street corner.
Dublin is the perfect starting point for exploring Ireland. I'll plan your city stay and connect it to Galway, the Cliffs of Moher and the Ring of Kerry, with a self-drive or guided tour that suits you.
BEST FOR
Literature lovers, history buffs, music fans and city-break travelers
BEST MONTHS
May to September
EXPLORE
Trinity College and Grafton Street anchor the central south side; Temple Bar sits near the Liffey; Smithfield lies west of the center; coastal villages are accessible by rail.
SIX18 SIGNATURE DESTINATION GUIDE
Dublin
Europe › Northern Europe › Ireland › Leinster
Georgian squares, lively pubs and literary legends in Ireland's friendly capital.
Historical & Heritage
Pubs
Literature
Music
SIX18 INSIDER TIP
Take the DART train to Howth for the cliff walk and fresh seafood. It's an easy half-day escape from the city.
Experiences Worth Exploring
THINGS TO DO
Book timed tickets in advance.
Trinity College and Book of Kells
See the Book of Kells, a medieval illuminated manuscript, at Ireland's oldest university.
Book tickets in advance and finish at the Gravity Bar.
Guinness Storehouse
Learn about Ireland's famous stout and enjoy a pint with panoramic views at the Gravity Bar.
Take the guided tour of the medieval undercroft.
Dublin Castle
A historic castle at the heart of the city, with state apartments and gardens.
Don't miss the beautiful park next door.
St Patrick’s Cathedral
Ireland's largest cathedral, where Jonathan Swift was dean.
Book tickets well in advance; tours sell out.
Kilmainham Gaol
A historic prison where leaders of Irish independence were held.
A grand historic hotel on St Stephen's Green, where the Irish Constitution was drafted.
The Shelbourne, Autograph Collection
St Stephen’s Green / City Center
Hotel Tags
A luxury hotel in restored Georgian townhouses, with a beautiful art collection.
The Merrion
Merrion Square / Georgian Dublin
Hotel Tags
A stylish hotel off Grafton Street, with afternoon tea.
The Westbury Hotel
Grafton Street / City Center
Hotel Tags
A modern luxury hotel in the Docklands, with a rooftop bar.
Anantara The Marker Dublin Hotel
Grand Canal Dock / Docklands
Hotel Tags
A stylish hotel overlooking St Stephen's Green.
The Fitzwilliam Hotel Dublin
St Stephen’s Green / South City Center
Hotel Tags
Curated Accommodations
WHERE TO STAY
November in Dublin
High 51°F · Low 40°F · Rain 2.8 in
Christmas lights and markets begin.
The best time to visit Dublin is May through September, when the weather is mild and the days are long. Winter is cool and rainy, but the pubs are cozy. Pack layers and a rain jacket any time of year.
Best Times to Visit Dublin
WHEN TO GO
Where to Dine
DINING
Dublin's food scene has grown into one of Europe's best, from traditional pub grub to Michelin-starred restaurants.
- Pubs: Enjoy a pint and hearty food in a traditional pub.
- Seafood: Try fresh seafood in Howth.
- Must-try: Irish stew, fish and chips, a full Irish breakfast and a pint of Guinness.
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Walking
Dublin's city center is compact and easy to explore on foot.
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Taxis
Taxis are widely available, and ride-hailing apps work with licensed taxis.
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Buses
Dublin Bus covers the city.
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DART
The DART train runs along the coast, connecting Dublin with Howth and other seaside towns.
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Luas
The Luas tram connects the city center with neighborhoods.
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Flying In
Dublin Airport (DUB) is about 30 minutes from the city by bus or taxi. U.S. preclearance makes the return trip easier.
Most visitors fly into Dublin Airport and take the bus or a taxi into the city. Once you're here, the city center is best explored on foot, with the Luas, DART and buses for longer distances.
Getting Around Dublin