Dublin Castle was originally built in the early 1200s as a medieval fortress under the instruction…read moreof King John of England. For centuries, it was the headquarters of English (and eventually British) rule in Ireland. In 1684, a large fire destroyed a large portion of the castle. Instead of matching the original Gothic style, most of it was rebuilt using a Georgian style, similar to what you'd find in the French Palace of Versailles! It's quite the contrast. When you visit Dublin Castle, you can choose to explore it in two ways: with a self-guided tour to the state apartments or with a scheduled guided tour that visits the Viking Excavation, the Chapel Royal, and the State Apartments. When you first enter the courtyard, you'll immediately see the newer Georgian architecture in the neat red brick buildings surrounding the square. From the 13th century to the early 20th century, the castle was under British control. It served from being a royal palace and parliament to a prison. Dublin Castle was eventually handed over to General Michael Collins on the 16th of January in 1922. Collins was a soldier and a politician who lead the Irish people through their fight for Independence Dublin Castle plays a huge role in Ireland's history and a walk around the grounds is time well spent. Today the castle is a government complex and tourist attraction. Stroll through the famous Chester Beatty Library if time permits

Nice stop for a fancy castle that doesn't take too long…read more Convenient free lockers upon entry. No lines & self guided. They did have audio tour I believe but we only had an hour to spare. Some cool history here w/ the monarchy here & some old pictures from centuries ago to compare. They could have a few more plaques with info in some of the empty rooms.

was lucky enough to visit the distillery with work colleagues and really enjoyed the experience…read moremade all the better by our excellent tour guide JACK. If Jamesons could bottle that enthusiasm...... etc.

What a great tour! Very well done. Our guide gave us a very informative and entertaining…read morepresentation. The tour itself is very modern and uses tech nicely. It's a tasting so you get to tray a few whiskeys. Very impressed with the overall tour. Ended up buying a couple of bottles of the limited Distillery Edition - can only get at this location. Building also had a bar if you want more drinks/cocktails. Outside is also a restaurant and a nice general Ireland gift shop. Highly recommend doing this tour if you're in the town of Dublin.

I have been to so many countries and I've been in so many tours and this is one of the best, our…read moretour guide, Adam, just beautifully portrayed the story of the jail. He was so incredibly captivating. I'm not sure anyone spoke for the full hour of the tour we were all so fascinated in his stories. So sobering and poignant. For only €8 this is an absolute steal. We took the first tour in the morning which I recommend as you get to see everything, including the museum, before the crowds.

Such an incredible tour! As an American, I didn't know too much about the Irish revolution, but…read morethat didn't stop us from deeply appreciating the history and sacrifices of the people who spent time in this place. Definitely a great way to spend a few hours learning about the country.

The Samuel Beckett is a cool little bridge across the River Liffey. It's signature is the design…read morethat resembles a harp, the national symbol of Ireland. We had a chance to admire it on our way the EPIC Irish Emigration Museum.

A beautiful Calatrava-designed bridge that immediately reminded me of Puente de la Mujer in Buenos…read moreAires. The design is strikingly similar, with its elegant, harp-like shape. Unlike Puente de la Mujer, this bridge has a lot less foot traffic, as it's shared with cars, but you can still cross it by foot and take in the views. Overall, a stunning piece of architecture.

There are several stories concerning the Jesus in a Box statue…read more It was formerly on O'Connell Street, but it was moved due to the tram improvements to Cathal Brugha Street Supposedly, after battles in the area during the 1916 Easter Rising, this Sacred Heart Jesus statue was found in the rubble. It was put on displace in the center of O'Connell, and has since become the guardian of the area's cabbies. Another story tells that the statue originated in the Gresham Hotel, and was being disposed of during refurbishment, when it was offered to the taxi drivers. I'll let you decide, on which one speaks to you.

For ages I thought this was some poncy modern art exhibit, then I got a closer look at it…read more It's actually quite a touching memorial, payed for by the Taxi Drivers, to one Eugene Lawlor. He was the rank organiser for O'Connell street, and I'll admit that before reading the inscription on the monument I had never heard of him. But that's what monuments are for isn't it? It's also nice to know that a community, like the taxi drivers, can have their values represented right in the heart of the city.

Still as evocative today as it was when they laid the last tile in 1974, Desmond Kinney's "The…read moreTáin" is a brilliant piece of Dublin art tying in Setanta House with its mythic namesake. Often read left to right (as you come in at the end of the story and the entrance of the small car park), the wall is a highlight reel of Irish hero Cuchulainn's exploits -cows, queens and bloody battles. As a piece of durable street art, the mural is alive with colour and motion -pulling the observer along its story telling track with fluid bodies and jewel coloured tesserae. I first met this statue at 13 and was awestruck -art existed everywhere in Dublin. That first long picture I snapped would be one of many as I made return trips to the city and this mosaic again and again. Walking past it today feels as if an old friend is just around the corner.

It doesn't cost anything - it's free to enter the National Gallery of Ireland, but they do take…read moredonations in cash or card form. This place is beautiful, and the spaces are gorgeous. They have chandeliers, staircases, and sculptures that make for wonderful photos. They have a good selection of art pieces, too. I really liked the portrait section. There's a space for kids to create their own art pieces with crayons, colored pencils, paper, and clipboards. There's also a museum gift shop with great gifts.

What is not to love about art?…read more They have some of the greats like Picasso and and Renoir. Some of the exhibits were closed but this was still worth a visit. Free entry.

Is it weird to say that this hotel was my favorite part of visiting Dublin?…read more We stayed for 7 nights and it was an absolute pleasure. The staff was friendly and accommodating. The rooms were well maintained and the decor was to die for. I wish every hotel felt this way. There are 3 bars inside the hotel as well as 2 restaurants. If you need help with anything the staff is always there to assist with a smile. Within walking distance of so many restaurants, pubs and shops.

Whenever I'm in Dublin, I take the opportunity to stay at the Shelbourne. The history that is…read morecaptured in this building undoubtedly warrants it the most unique hotel in Dublin. If you come prepared, they have a concierge and a genealogist on site to help you find your ancestors from Ireland. Many famous people and politicians have stayed in these walls as well. That said, this was a truly special time of year when they're getting ready for Christmas! They took such care and were meticulous with their decorations. It was delightful to come home to each evening. Experience: 1. They will tidy your room everyday 2. Turn down service begins around 6 pm (they will get your slipper, robe, bed, water and chocolate ready for nighttime) 3. Their small guest room includes a king size bed that is superbly fluffy. 4. The deluxe guest room has a deep tub for soaking Staff: The entire front desk staff is very helpful, welcoming and efficient. Marta was especially helpful and kind throughout my stay! As for the porters were just right with their assistance. I did always feel bad that I had not gotten any Euro on my trip, but I will mention Karl was fantastic! Always helpful and nice to talk with. Michele in the health center was informative and helped me find all of the rooms for their current gym as it's under renovation. Facilities: They have a 5 star spa on site that includes one of the best relaxation rooms I have experienced in the world. It's the view and seating that make it amazing. They give you a blanket, fruit, spa water -- all while looking over st. Stephen's park... bliss! (I went on a rainy day which added to the ambiance) The facial with Elemis product was my favorite. PRO TIP! if you're from the states and liked Elemis, there is now an Elemis outlet store at Kildare Village, which is a short train ride away. I made it there in 35 minutes. DINING: Again, 5 star experience and the restaurant is always packed. Chef makes superb food and I thoroughly enjoyed the room service of fish and chips. TONS of fish, perfectly battered and fried. If I could give the shelbourne a 10 out of 5 I would.

The Famous Guided Tour at the Little Museum of Dublin is perfectly named. In just 30-ish minutes,…read moreGeorge delivered an awe-inspiring blend of storytelling, humor, and song that left me with a deeper appreciation for Ireland's rich history. I was completely intrigued by the number of stories packed into such a short tour, all made possible through the generosity by the people of Ireand who donated the museum's artifacts. The passion and pride of the staff shine through in every moment. This is an absolute cute, educational must-do experience in Dublin!

An old house from 1777 turned into a museum. Saul was an…read moreamazing tour guide. He had great energy w/ his storytelling & even danced a jig. Lots to see in this Little museum of history & pop culture. Prices were inexpensive as well. Guides can take tips too. Not a great place young kids.

A must for any travelers visiting Ireland. The museum aspect…read moreis a lot of fun and visually quite striking (you also receive 2 Guinness's. They'll even let you pour your own). The food in the eateries was delicious. I had the fish, rice/veggies, with a chocolate Guinness mousse cake.

Is it too commercialized? Yes. Another tourist trap you could say... but if you never had a…read morebrewery tour, then it's worth visiting. The highlight was at the end, where you go up to their observation lounge for a drink and the view. The view of the city was nice, sit down, relax and enjoy a drink while taking in on the view. If you do go up to the top for the view and the drink, try to book your tour early, as around 11:30am, the place was packed.