University of Dublin
About Dublin, Guide and Top Tourist Attractions
(Dublin, Ireland)
Dublin is the largest city and capital of Ireland. Located at the country's east coast, the city is the centre of many of Ireland's civic operations - transport, communications and media, economy, and government. Dublin's trademark industry is brewing - the popular brand Guinness has been brewed here since 1759 - but in recent years a computer and information technology industry has flourished as well.
But despite a thriving tech industry, Dublin's historical and cultural charm has stayed intact. In fact, the surging local economy paved the way for the restoration of many of the city's historical sites and the establishment of a number of museums and art galleries. Old buildings and churches are scattered around the city, reminding both locals and tourists of its rich cultural heritage.
What to do in Dublin
Easily one of the best things to do in Dublin is to take a walk around the city, taking in the beautiful cobbled streets and the tasteful mix of classic and modern culture. Of course, the clean air and friendly atmosphere are welcome perks.
If you want to see more of the city, you can join the hop on/off bus tours that go around central Dublin at regular intervals throughout the day. The tours usually take 75 minutes and will take you to the main tourist attractions in the city, allowing you to get off the bus and explore and hop back on for the next place of interest.
For something a little different, you can take the Dublin Ghost Bus Tour. Open to tourists above 14 years old, the bus leaves in the evening and takes you on a two-hour trip around Dublin's creepiest spots - the site of the body-snatching at St Kevin's Graveyard, Dracula's Dublin origins, and a number of haunted houses.
Tourist Attractions
Dublin has some of the most fascinating landmarks in Europe. The 13th-century Dublin Castle, once the seat of British power in Ireland, has a vast cobblestone courtyard fenced in by tall stone towers and magnificent buildings. It is a favourite among casual tourists and history buffs alike, and is one of the most visited spots in the city.
On O'Connell Street, you will find the Spire of Dublin, a tall, narrow tower that lights up from the top. The spire is simple enough - basically just a giant pin - but you will be awed by its sheer size. At 120 metres, the Spire is the tallest sculpture in the world.
Dublin is also home to some of Ireland's leading art and history galleries. The National Museum of Ireland has three centres in Dublin, displaying such artefacts as medieval metalwork, ornaments from the Bronze Age, and a recently found thousand-year-old prayer book. For something more contemporary, the Irish Museum of Modern Art is the place to see. Established in 1991, the museum has long been Ireland's premier venue for contemporary art. It focuses on acquiring and displaying works by living artists and stages some of the most interesting exhibits in Europe.
