When in Dublin: Classics, Cuisine, and a Seaside Surprise
When in Dublin: Classics, Cuisine, and a Seaside Surprise! We landed in Dublin, Ireland, after a short flight from London, ready for a few unforgettable days exploring this vibrant capital. We hopped on an airport bus and walked a short distance to our hotel — an easy and relaxed start to our Irish adventure.
We stayed at The Alex Hotel, a stylish and modern property right in the heart of Dublin. The rooms were cozy and comfortable, but what really stood out was the exceptional customer service. The Alex’s central location made it easy to get everywhere — just a short walk from Trinity College Dublin, Merrion Square, and both the bus and train stations.
Day 1: Dublin’s Pub Culture and Fine Dining
No trip to Dublin is complete without a visit to the Temple Bar District. Yes, it’s crowded and a bit pricey, but it’s also full of life, music, and fun. We wandered its cobblestone streets, soaked in the atmosphere, and of course, had our first pint of Guinness and a couple of Irish whiskeys.
But Dublin’s pub scene extends far beyond Temple Bar. Every neighborhood has its own gems — and you shouldn’t be afraid to just walk in anywhere that looks inviting. One favorite was The Brazen Head, officially recognized as Ireland’s oldest pub, dating back to 1198. Inside, it’s everything you imagine an Irish pub to be — low ceilings, live music, hearty food, and the warm hum of laughter and conversation. The pub’s history is woven with stories of revolutionaries, writers, and musicians who once gathered there.
After exploring, we headed back to The Alex to get ready for dinner — and what a dinner it was. The highlight of our trip: Chapter One by Mickael Viljanen, a two-Michelin-star restaurant located on Parnell Square North. The restaurant’s intimate, contemporary setting and flawless service perfectly complemented the extraordinary food. Each dish was beautifully plated and more delicious than the last — an unforgettable fine-dining experience that’s absolutely worth splurging on.
Our first day in Dublin ended on a high note — quite literally, an epic start to our Irish getaway.
Day 2: History, Culture, and a Proper Pint
We began the next morning with coffee in hand, walking toward one of Dublin’s most iconic landmarks — Trinity College Dublin. Founded in 1592, this prestigious university is Ireland’s oldest and one of Europe’s most beautiful campuses.
Visiting Trinity College Dublin
The highlight here is the Book of Kells, an illuminated manuscript created by Celtic monks over 1,200 years ago. The intricate artwork and historical significance make it a must-see. After viewing the Book of Kells, don’t miss the Long Room Library, a breathtaking hall lined with marble busts and over 200,000 of the college’s oldest books.
- Admission fee: €19–€21 (depending on time and season)
- Location: College Green, Dublin 2
- ⏰ Tip: Book online ahead of time to skip the long lines.
After a quick lunch, it was time for one of Dublin’s most famous attractions — the Guinness Storehouse.
Guinness Storehouse
Even if you’re not a beer lover, the Guinness Storehouse is an absolute must-visit. This seven-floor interactive museum tells the story of Arthur Guinness, the brand’s founder, and the brewing process behind Ireland’s most famous beer. You’ll learn how to pour the perfect pint and end your visit at the Gravity Bar, which offers panoramic views of Dublin.
- Admission fee: from €26 (includes a pint of Guinness)
- Location: St. James’s Gate, Dublin 8
It was here that I truly fell in love with Guinness — creamy, smooth, and freshly poured the Irish way.
We ended the day with dinner at Mama Yo, a stylish modern Asian restaurant in the heart of Dublin. The cocktails were creative, the flavors bold, and it was the perfect way to unwind after a busy sightseeing day.
Must-Visit Dublin Attractions
Dublin is full of landmarks that blend history, culture, and charm. Here are some of our favorites — perfect for a short trip itinerary:
- St. Patrick’s Cathedral — The largest cathedral in Ireland, with beautiful Gothic architecture.
- Admission: €9
- Christ Church Cathedral — A stunning medieval church dating back to 1030.
- Admission: €10–€12
- Ha’Penny Bridge — A beloved pedestrian bridge over the River Liffey, built in 1816. Free and perfect for photos!
- EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum — An interactive, high-tech museum telling the story of Irish emigration and its global impact.
- Admission: €19.50
- The Church Café, Late Bar & Restaurant — A bar and restaurant set inside a restored 18th-century church. Unique atmosphere!
- National Gallery of Ireland — Free entry to the permanent collection, which includes works by Vermeer, Caravaggio, and Irish masters.
- Temple Bar District — Always buzzing with live music, art, and good craic (that’s Irish for “fun”).
Day Trip from Dublin: Exploring Howth
If you have an extra day in Dublin, take the short train ride to Howth, a charming seaside village only 30 minutes away. Tickets on the DART train cost about €5 each way.
Even though we couldn’t do the full Howth Cliff Walk due to weather, we took a boat tour along the cliffs — and it was absolutely spectacular. The sea breeze, the dramatic cliffs, and the view of the lighthouse made for one of the most memorable moments of our trip.
Howth is also famous for its fresh seafood. We tried the local oysters, which were some of the best we’ve ever had — fresh, briny, and perfectly paired with a glass of white wine.
You can also admire the Howth Castle from the outside (it’s privately owned, so visitors can’t go inside). The castle dates back to the 15th century, and while much of it remains a private residence, its surrounding grounds and walled gardens are steeped in history.
Don’t miss the National Transport Museum of Ireland, located nearby, which showcases over 180 vintage vehicles from Ireland’s transport history.
Final Morning in Dublin
On our last day, we enjoyed a delicious breakfast at The Alex Hotel, packed our bags, and caught a taxi to the bus station. Ahead of us was the next chapter of our Irish adventure — the beautiful town of Letterkenny was waiting.
Final Thoughts
From historic colleges and ancient cathedrals to cozy pubs and Michelin-starred restaurants, Dublin offers the perfect mix of culture, cuisine, and charm. Whether you’re wandering the lively streets of Temple Bar, learning how to pour the perfect pint at the Guinness Storehouse, or taking in sea views in Howth, every experience in Dublin feels full of life.
When in Dublin, say yes to adventure — the city will reward you with unforgettable stories, delicious flavors, and a warm Irish welcome. ☘️