DUBLIN - Travel Diary
- 10 mag 2018
- Tempo di lettura: 3 min
I have just spent 4 beautiful days in Dublin with some friends and couldn't be more excited to share with you all the best places to visit in this city!!
Culture:
Dublin is the capital of Ireland, located on the East coast, on the mouth of the river Liffey. The city was established by Celtic-speaking people in the 7th Century. A curious fact regarding the spoken language is that in the Republic of Ireland, both English and Irish have official status, with Irish being the national and first official language. This city in general has such a strong and fascinating link with its traditions and cultural heritage, you can see it pretty much everywhere while exploring.
Here is a list of what you can't miss!
-Trinity College: as soon as you enter Parliament Square, you'll want to get back to Uni, I swear! The atmosphere is so quiet and tranquil even though it is located at the very centre of Dublin. This college was founded in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth I and it is considered to be the most prestigious university in Ireland, and amongst the most elite in Europe, mainly because of its history, highly competitive admissions procedure and unique relationship with both the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge.
- Book of Kells: While visiting the Trinity College why not stop by and check out the Book of Kells? It is a manuscript Gospel book - created in c. 800 AD - written in Latin, that contains the four Gospels of the New Testament. Considered a true masterwork of Western calligraphy, it represents one of Ireland's finest national treasures.
- The Guinness Storehouse: on the more "fun" side, you can visit one of the main tourist attractions in the city! The storehouse has 7 floors, that surround a glass atrium shaped in the form of a pint of Guinness. You can also enjoy a pint at the top floor bar included in the ticket!
- The National Gallery: you will find a pretty extensive collection of Irish and European art. Funded in 1854, it is located in the centre of Dublin. Great art & Free entry!!
- Temple Bar: this area is located on the south bank of the River Liffey. It is identified as Dublin's cultural quarter. Its pubs, cafes, traditional shops make it the perfect location to get a true glimpse of the city. The lively nightlife of this area also attracts a mix of locals & tourists.
- Kilmainham Gaol: This is a former prison that is now been converted in a museum. I highly suggest to book the tickets in advance on the official website since it is very popular!
EXTRA ACTIVITIES & TRIPS
- Cliffs of Moher: if you have an extra day I highly suggest to go visit this breathtaking location. From Dublin it will take approx. 3 hours drive but it is so worth it! These sea cliffs located at the southwestern edge of Ireland. They run for about 14 kilometres. At their southern end, they rise 120 metres above the Atlantic Ocean at Hag's Head. This location is truly something you want to tick off your bucket list!
- Glendalough: or "Valley of two lakes" is a glacial valley and it is renowned for an Early Medieval monastic settlement founded in the 6th century. Such a magical and ethereal place!
Transportation:
the great thing about Dublin is that everything is accessible by foot. You can customize your itinerary or you can look up online different "set routes" depending on how much time you have ( in 1/2 days are definitely enough to explore the whole city).
Of course buses and trams are accessible and the tickets can be purchased directly on the buses. Taxi can be also a great alternative, especially if you are traveling in a group of friends so you can share the cost. The cost from South of the city to the Temple Bar area would be approximately of 10 Euros.
Traditional Food:
The food in Ireland in general is quite similar to the traditional English food. You will find great Fish & Chips in every Pub and - of course - you can enjoy it with a pint of Guinness. Go on the hunt for the best Brunch spots, you will find them especially in the Temple Bar area ( can you ever say no to a great Avocado Toast? ).
I really hope you have found some inspiration for you next getaway!!
Linda
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