Dublin,a place full of wonders: literary greats, architectural genius and pure Irish atmosphere. So, you must be wondering how you can possibly visit all of the must-see sights in just 48hrs.
Beginning in the heart of Dublin, I suggest, to make your way to Trinity College, a renowned university that has educated the likes of Bram Stoker, Oscar Wilde and Samuel Beckett.The grand buildings, which are open to the public to roam are a mesmerising sight. This spot is also perfect for those looking for a taste of university atmosphere, since the area is buzzing with students. A short meander around the corner will also bring you to the university's library, which homes the Book of Kells- ‘an illuminated manuscript Gospel book in Latin’. Once the exploring of Trinity is complete you can nip across to the whiskey factory, even if you aren't a keen whiskey lover, you can take a quick snap outside for the photo album. Also nearby is Grafton Street, a modern tourist spot since the mention in an Ed Sheeran song (can you name which one in the comment section no googling, we want the true Ed fans) - but be aware it is just your ordinary street.
Seems a bit overwhelming for you? Well no bother! Stroll over to St.Stephens Green, a beautiful park which has plenty to see, to list a few: statues of authors, an astounding pond which attracts an array of wildlife, although personally I'm not a fan of seagulls. If you can withstand the tiredness for slightly longer, I think this park is ideal for lunch, but of course only if the Irish weather is permitting.
If you reverse your steps from central Dublin, you can stumble upon another green, where an Oscar Wilde statue lays and
if you are an avid literary fan, like myself, you can take a snap outside Wilde’s former home (which is opposite the large statue). This of course is an optional stop, like all others, but why not make the most of your time here!
Near to the previous stop off is Leinster House, equivalent of Downing Street if you are a Brit, which is a grand statement among the bare Dublin Road, and although it's a quick stop off, it's definitely worth a visit. Adjacent to the parliament is a Natural History Museum, not as large as those in London and thus takes much less time to explore - although I'm not a fan of taxidermy, I see this spot as an interest for many.
Another must-see is Temple Bar, an iconic place that has drawn in tourists for many years, and although the drinks are priced extortionately, the experience is one to keep. Cuddling the bar itself are cobbled streets which hold a grand Irish atmosphere and many souvenir shops. Up the road is, following the alcohol theme (you can tell you're in Dublin), is the Guinness factory, where you can learn about the making and history of the famous drink. There are three beautiful buildings between the bar and factory: Dublin Castle, St Patrick’s Cathedral (the largest in Ireland) and Dublinia, some architecture that I found breathtaking.
Throughout your journey you’ll spot a river; the River Liffey which runs through Dublin is adorned by fabulous bridges, some which act as tributes to famous writers, e.g the Samuel Beckett Bridge. The bridges truly fascinated me, and many others I’m assured. Cross one of the bridges near the Guinness Storehouse where you can continue your travels…
The Four Courts, the supreme court in Dublin, intimidating as it sounds. Then a walk down the river until you meet O’Connell street where the GPO is situated. The GPO is a post office, a large stone structure with pillars that still bear wounds (bullet holes) from the Easter Uprising - make sure you take a close look! Then as you continue up to Parnell Square you’ll find the last stop that I visited. The writers museum, of course being a keen reader it seemed fitting for me to visit, but even if you aren’t the biggest book worm, the place still screams history!
This was my trip to Dublin briefly encapsulated, there are more places to visit so definitely prioritise and pick what is most suitable for you. Due to my wandering, the efficiency of my stops may not be the best, but the more you wander the more you wonder about Dublin. My advice would be to have some places in mind, but stumble upon other hidden gems, rather exciting! If you do venture to Dublin, enjoy and tell us what you found the highlights to be…
Duck x
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