What to do in Dublin, Ireland
After the passing of my grandfather last summer, I knew I really wanted to go to Ireland, where his grandparents were from. I decided that from Scotland I would fly into Dublin, and spend a few days there before heading back to the states. I knew I would have good luck when I arrived at the airport in Dublin, and a strapping young Irish man, tall dark and handsome with a sparkle in his eye, stamped my passport.
And luck I had. I spent the few days I had touring Dublin and its surroundings. What a beautiful country! I stayed in an excellent hostel, the Ashfield House, which was right across the bridge from O’Connell street, and a few blocks away from Trinity College.
My dreams came true when we took the library tour at Trinity College. While most people were going crazy over the Book of Kells, an ornate religious book written by Celtic monks, I was secretly snapping photos in the library. Nerd alert!
I was excited to visit Dublin’s oldest church, otherwise known as The Church Bar (that’s right, now it’s a restaurant and bar). It being closed, I made my way up to The Writers Museum, a cute little exhibit about Ireland’s most famous author’s and playwrights. Don’t miss the café afterwards for a yummy lunch – and I snagged a copy of The Dubliners in the gift shop.
Finally, my favorite thing to do in Dublin was visit Kilmainham Goal. This former prison played a huge part in Irish rebellions as well as the War of Independence, where most of the famous revolutionaries were jailed and sometimes even killed. It is a crucial part in understanding the city as well as the country. I highly recommend a visit here!
Overall, I just loved Dublin’s warm and friendly inhabitants. Everyone I met there was so welcoming and fun, the best part about the city for sure.
Tags: book of kells, dublin, ireland, kilmainham goal, the church, trinity college, writers museum
I so want to go to Ireland! I would be nerding out over the library too, without a doubt.
I totally agree! The people of Dublin are so friendly and welcoming. Plus there’s so much to do in that city. I’m glad you got to visit it before returning to the states.
I’m so glad you had such a beautiful trip!
I would’ve been snapping photos of the library too! They’re definitely a favorite spot for me. 
I LOVE that image of the Church Bar. When I was in Manchester, England a few years ago we went to a bar in an abandoned church as well. It was awesome.
Dublin is one place in Europe I haven’t been to…but always wished I did! Esp. after watching that movie with Matthew Goode and Amy Smart…ummm, I forgot what it’s called ;( …oh, it’s called Leap Year (I just Google’d it)!
That’s why I went to Ireland! Shows so much beautiful scenery, and Matthew Goode is gorgeous. The end.
Dying to get there too. They sometimes have great deals from Boston direct- usually off season but would make for a nice long weekend. PS, I would totally freak over the Book of Kells, haha, I studied Medieval art and history;)
Sounds like you had a great time! I still haven’t been to Ireland, but need to. When I was growing up St Patrick’s Day was taken more seriously at my house than Christmas–all the distant relatives came over, photos from everyones trips to Ireland came out, and a huge meal was prepared. So… I have the family calling to go visit as well. Sorry to read about your grandfather, that’s hard.
I love visiting libraries!
I looove visiting libraries! I also would’ve been secretly snapping shots. I’ve not yet been to Dublin but it looks charming!